Dental Sealant Program

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars in the back teeth by a dentist or a dental hygienist. The purpose of the sealants is to prevent cavities from forming in these teeth. Clinics are held each year in the elementary and middle schools in Jersey County. Students in grades 2 and 6 are the best groups for dental sealants because first and second molars are coming in at these ages. However, children between the ages of 5 and 15 can receive the sealants. Children enrolled in Kid Care, Medicaid, or the free and reduced lunch programs are eligible for dental sealants and dental exams. Jersey County Health Department provides dental sealant clinics in the schools in cooperation with Jersey CUSD #100. The program is funded by a grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Oral Health. For more information about the sealant program contact Jersey County Health Department at 618-498-9565 or call your school nurse.