Sealants are thin protective coatings that when painted on the chewing surface of molars (back teeth), can shield them from food particles and bacteria. Once applied, sealants protect against 80% of cavities for two years and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to many years, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Getting a sealant is a painless easy way of preventing cavities, and teeth without cavities are stronger and healthier than teeth treated for cavities. This simple preventive measure can as a result lower your need for expensive invasive dental care in the long run.