Protective coating to prevent cavities in children and adults
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where most cavities in children and teens tend to develop. The molars and premolars have deep grooves and pits that are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush, making them especially vulnerable to tooth decay. Sealants fill in these grooves, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that keeps out food particles and bacteria.
At Redwater Dental Clinic in Redwater, AB, we recommend dental sealants as one of the most effective and affordable preventive treatments available. The procedure is quick, painless, and can save your child from the discomfort and cost of fillings down the road.
Sealants are one of the simplest ways to protect teeth from cavities. Here is why our team at Redwater Dental Clinic recommends them:
According to the Canadian Dental Association, children without sealants are nearly three times more likely to develop cavities in their back teeth compared to those who have them. Sealants are a proven, evidence-based preventive measure.
Applying dental sealants is one of the fastest and most comfortable procedures we perform at Redwater Dental Clinic. Here is what to expect:
The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth. There is no discomfort, no anesthesia needed, and your child can eat and drink normally right after the appointment. Most children find the experience completely stress-free, making sealants a great option for young or anxious patients.
Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, but adults can benefit from them too. Here is who we typically recommend sealants for at Redwater Dental Clinic:
Children and Teens (Ages 6-14): The ideal time to apply sealants is as soon as the permanent molars come in. The first molars typically erupt around age 6, and the second molars around age 12. Sealing these teeth early provides protection during the cavity-prone years when children are still developing their brushing habits. Sealants pair well with regular teeth cleanings for kids as part of a comprehensive preventive plan.
Adults: If you have deep grooves in your molars and no existing fillings or decay on those surfaces, sealants can still provide valuable protection. Adults who are particularly cavity-prone or who have dry mouth conditions may benefit most from sealants.
Baby Teeth: In some cases, we may recommend sealants on baby teeth if they have deep grooves and the child is at high risk for cavities. Protecting baby teeth is important because they hold space for permanent teeth and play a role in proper chewing and speech development.
Dental sealants can last five to ten years with proper care. During your regular checkups at Redwater Dental Clinic, we check the condition of existing sealants and can reapply them if they have worn down or chipped. Factors that affect sealant longevity include:
Even if a sealant wears down over time, the tooth will have been protected during its most vulnerable years. Reapplication is quick and simple if needed.
Sealants are just one part of a complete preventive strategy. Combined with regular brushing, flossing, fluoride treatments, and professional cleanings at Redwater Dental Clinic, sealants help give your child the best chance at a cavity-free smile. Call us at 780-942-4691 or request an appointment online to discuss whether sealants are right for your family.
Ask about dental sealants at your child's next visit
