Why Sealants Are So Effective Against Cavities
Dental sealants act like a shield for your child’s back teeth. Most cavities in children occur in the deep grooves of molars, where toothbrush bristles can’t always reach. Sealants are made of clear or tooth-coloured resin that flows into these pits and hardens, forming a barrier against food particles, bacteria, and plaque.
Sealants are particularly effective for children between the ages of 6 and 14, when their permanent molars erupt. Applied early, sealants:
- Prevent cavities before they start
- Save money on future dental work
- Reduce the need for fillings or crowns later in life
- Provide long-term protection for 3–5 years or longer with proper care
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we use high-quality BPA-free sealants and monitor their effectiveness during routine checkups.
When to Book Sealants: Timing Around School Schedules
The end of summer break is one of the best times to add sealants, especially before school schedules get hectic. Here’s why August is ideal:
- Convenient Scheduling: You can combine sealants with a back-to-school checkup or cleaning.
- No Class Time Missed: Getting it done before September means no disruption to school activities.
- Prevents New Cavities During the School Year: Once school starts, kids snack more, brush less consistently, and take longer to report discomfort. Sealants add protection when their habits might lapse.
- Lasts Through the Year: A single appointment offers peace of mind for the months ahead.
Some parents wait until a cavity starts forming, but sealants are most effective as a preventive measure—not a treatment.
The Dental Sealant Process: What to Expect
Sealants are painless, non-invasive, and take only a few minutes per tooth. Here’s what your child can expect during their dental visit:
- Cleaning and Drying: The tooth surface is cleaned and dried completely.
- Etching: A gentle gel is applied to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
- Rinsing and Drying: The tooth is rinsed and dried again to ensure proper adhesion.
- Sealant Application: The dentist paints a thin layer of resin over the chewing surface.
- Curing with Light: A special blue light hardens the sealant in seconds.
There’s no drilling, no freezing, and no discomfort. Most kids don’t even notice the sealants once applied.
Who Benefits Most from Dental Sealants?
Sealants are most often recommended for:
- Children who have deep grooves in their molars
- Kids who get cavities frequently despite good brushing
- Children with limited dexterity or inconsistent hygiene habits
- Families looking to reduce future dental treatment costs
- Teens with early molar wear or a history of fillings
Adults can get sealants too, especially if their molars are cavity-prone, but insurance coverage and long-term benefits are more common for children.
Sealants work best when applied soon after permanent molars erupt, usually around ages 6 and 12.
Dental Sealants at Marlborough Dental Centre
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we take a preventative approach to dentistry. We believe a strong foundation in childhood leads to healthier smiles for life. Here’s what makes our dental sealant service different:
- We use BPA-free sealants that are safe for children.
- Sealants can be added during the same appointment as an exam or cleaning.
- We monitor all sealants for chips, wear, or loss during routine visits.
- Our hygienists and dentists explain every step so kids feel comfortable and confident.
- We offer direct billing and can confirm insurance coverage before applying the sealants.
Even if your child already has a few fillings, sealants can help protect their remaining healthy teeth.
Protect Their Smile Before the School Bell Rings
Don’t wait for a cavity to form before acting. Preventive care like dental sealants is one of the most effective ways to avoid pain, save money, and protect your child’s smile. Marlborough Dental Centre makes it simple to book before school starts, and sealants can be added in just one visit. Contact us today to schedule your child’s back-to-school appointment and ask about cavity protection options like dental sealants.
FAQs
Q: How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
A: Sealants usually last 3–5 years, sometimes longer with good care.
Q: Are Dental Sealants Safe For Children?
A: Yes. We use BPA-free, safe materials approved for use in children.
Q: Does The Procedure Hurt?
A: No. There’s no drilling or needles, just a quick application process. Contact Marlborough Dental Centre today to book an appointment for your child.
