Preventive · Dental Sealants · National Cost

How much does a dental sealant cost?

Average Dental Sealants cost in the US: $55-$140

🏥 Based on ADA fee survey data
📊 Population-weighted national average
🔄 Updated May 2026
✓ Reviewed by Pearl clinical team
$55 – $140

Typical Dental Sealants range across the United States

📍 All 50 states covered 🏥 PPO typically covers up to ortho max

National average

$80

Dental Sealants · D1351

What is this procedure?

About this procedure

A dental sealant is a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surface of a back tooth. Sealants fill the deep grooves where toothbrush bristles can't reach, reducing the risk of cavities by up to 80% in those grooves. The procedure is fast, painless, and most commonly applied to children's permanent molars, though some adults benefit too.

Sealants are typically billed per tooth. A single application takes a few minutes per tooth and lasts 5–10 years with normal wear. They are one of the most cost-effective preventive procedures in dentistry.

Price factors

What affects this cost?

  • Per-tooth pricing: Most practices bill sealants per tooth, so total cost depends on how many teeth need them.
  • Adult vs. pediatric: Insurance coverage is usually generous for children but limited or non-existent for adults.
  • Reapplication: Replacing a worn-out sealant on a permanent tooth costs the same as the original.
  • Local market: Practices in higher-cost metros charge more per tooth.
  • Material: Some practices use higher-end sealant materials with longer life expectancy.

By state

Where does this cost the most and least?

Pearl tracks pricing across all 50 states. Below are the highest and lowest cost markets — click any state for a full state-level cost breakdown across covered cities.

Highest cost states

Lowest cost states

Quote checker

What should your quote include?

Different providers bundle costs differently. Here's what a complete quote typically covers — and what's often left out.

USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE QUOTED PRICE

  • Tooth surface cleaning
  • Etching for adhesion
  • Sealant application and curing
  • Bite check after application
  • Per-tooth fee clearly listed

OFTEN BILLED SEPARATELY — ASK BEFORE YOU AGREE

  • Sealants on multiple teeth (each tooth is its own line item)
  • Future reapplication after wear
  • Adult sealants if your plan only covers pediatric
  • Treatment for cavities found before sealing

Health stakes

What happens if you delay treatment?

  • Cavities can develop in deep grooves and require fillings instead
  • Sealants are most effective when applied soon after a tooth erupts
  • Once a cavity has formed, sealing isn't an option for that surface

Before you agree

Questions to ask your provider

  • How many teeth need sealants? What's the per-tooth fee?
  • Is sealant covered by my insurance plan?
  • How long will the sealant last?
  • Will you check for sealant wear at future visits?
  • Are there any teeth that don't need sealing?

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Most pediatric dentists recommend sealants on permanent molars shortly after they erupt — typically ages 6, 12, and 18. Earlier is better, before cavities have a chance to form in the grooves.
Adults with deep grooves on their molars and a history of cavities can benefit from sealants. Adults without cavities and shallow grooves may not need them. Discuss with your dentist.
Most PPO plans cover sealants on permanent molars for patients under 18. Coverage for adult sealants is uncommon.
A well-applied sealant typically lasts 5–10 years before needing replacement. Your dentist will check for wear at routine exams.
Yes — sealants gradually wear down over years. If a sealant has worn off, your dentist can reapply it. The cost is the same as the original.

See local pricing

Compare what this costs in your city.

Pearl's cost data covers 485 U.S. cities. Search by procedure and zip — get a localized fee range and what to expect from your insurance.

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