Dental sealants act like tiny shields for those grooves.
If you searched for a family dentistry near me or a friendly dentist Coquitlam,
here’s a simple guide made for busy parents.
What exactly is a sealant?
A sealant is a thin, protective coating brushed onto the chewing surface of molars and premolars.
It flows into natural pits and fissures, then hardens. Food and plaque can’t settle as easily.
Brushing and flossing become more effective, and the cavity risk drops.
Who benefits most?
- Kids and teens with newly erupted molars.
- Children who love snacks or sip sweet drinks often.
- Anyone with deep grooves or early stain marks in pits and fissures.
Adults can benefit too, especially if grooves are deep and decay-free.
We’ll check during your routine exam.
When should sealants be placed?
First permanent molars usually erupt around ages six to seven.
Second molars arrive around ages eleven to thirteen.
Sealants work best soon after these teeth appear and the chewing surface is fully visible.
Step-by-step: what your child can expect
- Cleaning: We gently polish the tooth to remove plaque and debris.
- Prep: A special gel helps the sealant bond to enamel.
- Placement: We paint on the sealant and let it flow into grooves.
- Curing: A blue light hardens the material in seconds.
- Check: We confirm the bite feels natural and comfortable.
No needles. No drilling. Most appointments are quick and stress-free.
How long do sealants last?
Many sealants protect for several years.
Your hygienist checks them at every cleaning and can repair small chips easily.
Good brushing, fluoride toothpaste, and routine visits extend their lifespan.
Costs, value, and coverage
Sealants are a cost-effective way to prevent cavities and future fillings.
We provide estimates before treatment and review any coverage.
Preventive choices support affordable dental care in Coquitlam.
Sealants vs. fluoride: do you need both?
Yes—each protects in a different way.
Sealants block bacteria from pits and fissures.
Fluoride strengthens enamel on the entire tooth surface.
Together, they deliver strong, long-term protection.
Daily tips that keep cavities away
- Brush twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
- Help younger kids clean back teeth where brushes often miss.
- Limit frequent snacking and sugary sips between meals.
- Drink water after snacks to rinse away sugars and acids.
- Schedule regular exams and cleanings for the whole family.
Common questions, answered
Do sealants feel bulky? No. They are thin and quickly feel normal.
Do they replace brushing? Never. They make brushing more effective.
Can teeth with sealants still get cavities? It’s less likely, but possible if sealants wear or oral care slips. We monitor them.
What if a tiny cavity is starting? We may recommend a conservative treatment before sealing. Your exam guides the plan.
Your next step
Want a quick check to see if your child is ready for sealants?
Explore preventive care on our services page,
read more tips on the blog,
or send a note on our contact page.
Many families find us while searching general dentistry near me or a
trusted family dentist near you. We’re happy to help.