A dental sealant is a plastic coating placed on the tooth, typically on the chewing surface of the back teeth, to prevent the formation of decay in the teeth. Sealants are recommended in children when their first permanent molars erupt around age 6, but they can be placed and recommended for any age on any teeth. If a person presents with deep grooves and pits in the teeth then sealants are recommended due to these areas being more susceptible to catching food and bacteria which can lead to cavity development. Sealants do not involve any drilling to place onto the teeth, they are simply painted onto the selected tooth surfaces and then cured with a light; the procedure is painless.