Dental sealants are thin protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help prevent decay. They are most often applied to children’s long-term molars soon after the teeth come through. Applying a sealant is quick and does not need drilling or an injection.
Why back teeth need sealants
Molars have deep grooves, called fissures, that trap food and plaque. Toothbrush bristles are often too wide to clean the bottom of these grooves, which is why most decay in children’s adult teeth starts there. A sealant fills the grooves and leaves a smoother surface that is easier to clean.
When should children have sealants?
- First long-term molars: around age 6 to 7
- Second long-term molars: around age 11 to 13
- Baby molars or premolars: sometimes, if the grooves are deep or the child has a high risk of decay
Sealants work suitable when they are placed soon after the tooth has fully come through. Teenagers and adults with deep grooves and no decay can also have them.
How sealants are applied
- The tooth is cleaned and dried
- A gel is applied for a few seconds to prepare the surface, then rinsed off
- The liquid sealant is painted into the grooves
- A curing light sets it hard in under a minute
Your child can eat and drink straight afterwards. The bite may feel slightly different for a day or two.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last for several years. They can chip or wear, so we check them at each visit and repair or replace them when needed. Sealants protect the chewing surface only, so brushing with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth are still needed.
Are sealants covered by the CDBS?
Yes. Fissure sealants are covered by the Child Dental Benefits Schedule for eligible children, and we bulk bill covered services. See our bulk billing and Child Dental Benefits Schedule pages.
Read more on our fissure sealants and kids dentist pages, or see tooth decay in children.
To book a visit at Penrith Dental Care, 42 Castlereagh Street, Penrith, contact our team. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own dental practitioner.