Dental Sealants in Banff
A simple, effective barrier against decay. Dental sealants at Rocky Mountain Dental protect your child's back teeth during the years they are most vulnerable to cavities.
About Dental Sealants
A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of healthy, decay free teeth. Sealants create a barrier against food and bacteria. Newly erupted tooth enamel requires three years to mature, making young teeth particularly vulnerable to decay during that period, which is exactly when sealants offer the most protection.
What Are Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are made from a durable plastic resin that is painted onto the deep grooves of back teeth, molars and premolars, where cavities most commonly form. Once applied and hardened with a curing light, the sealant creates a smooth, protective surface that is much harder for food particles and bacteria to penetrate than the natural grooves of the tooth.
Who This Helps
Dental sealants are especially valuable for the following.
- Children with newly erupted permanent molars
- Kids with deep grooves or pits in their back teeth
- Patients with a history of cavities in molars
- Children who may struggle with thorough brushing of back teeth
- Anyone wanting an extra layer of cavity prevention alongside good hygiene habits
What Is Included
- A quick examination to confirm the tooth is healthy and decay free
- Cleaning and preparation of the tooth surface
- Application of the sealant material into the grooves of the tooth
- Curing the sealant with a special light to harden it in place
- A bite check to ensure comfort once the sealant is applied
Why Choose Rocky Mountain Dental for This
Our team makes sealant application quick, comfortable, and easy for young patients, often completing the process within the same visit as a routine check-up. We explain each step in simple terms so children feel at ease, building positive associations with preventive dental care early on.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- A brief examination to confirm the tooth is a good candidate for a sealant.
- Cleaning and drying of the tooth surface to prepare it for the sealant.
- Application of the sealant material directly into the grooves of the tooth.
- Hardening of the sealant using a special curing light.
- A quick bite check to confirm comfort before your child heads home.
Recovery and Aftercare
There is no recovery period after a sealant is applied, and children can eat and drink normally right away. Sealants should be checked at regular dental visits to confirm they remain intact, and typically last several years with normal wear before a reapplication may be recommended.
Related Treatments
Sealants are often paired with fluoride treatments as part of a comprehensive preventive care approach for children, and both are commonly discussed together during a routine check-up.
Cost of Dental Sealants
The cost of dental sealants depends on the number of teeth being treated. For an accurate estimate based on your child's needs, please contact our team for a personalised quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental sealants made of?
Dental sealants are made from a durable plastic resin that is applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and hardened with a curing light.
How long do dental sealants last?
With normal wear, sealants typically last several years, and your dentist will check them at regular visits to confirm they remain intact.
Can dental sealants be removed?
Yes, sealants can be removed or replaced if needed, though they are generally left in place as long as they continue to protect the tooth effectively.
Do dental sealants hurt to apply?
No. Sealant application is quick and comfortable, requiring no drilling or anaesthetic, which makes it especially comfortable for young patients.
At what age should my child get dental sealants?
Sealants are commonly recommended as soon as permanent molars erupt, typically around age six, and again for additional molars as they come in later in childhood.
Book Your Appointment
Give your child's teeth extra protection where they need it most. Book an appointment today to find out if dental sealants are right for your child.
