DENTAL CARE
Dental Sealants
We offer dental sealants for children, teenagers and suitable adults to help safeguard vulnerable teeth and support long-term oral health.
Dental Sealants Canning Vale, Dentists @ Canning Vale
A quick, comfortable preventative treatment that protects teeth from decay. Dental sealants are ideal for children and adults with deep grooves in their back teeth, and they can last for years with proper care.
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, particularly the molars and premolars. These teeth have deep grooves and pits where food and bacteria can become trapped, making them harder to clean and more susceptible to cavities.
The sealant material fills in these grooves, creating a smooth surface that is much easier to brush clean. It acts as a physical barrier between the tooth surface and bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay in these high-risk areas.
At Dentists @ Canning Vale, our team applies dental sealants as part of our broader commitment to preventative dentistry. Led by Dr Desmond Ng, we aim to help patients of all ages avoid dental problems before they develop.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Protects Against Cavities
Sealants create a physical barrier over vulnerable tooth surfaces, dramatically reducing the risk of tooth decay in the back teeth where cavities are most common.
Fast & Gentle
The application is simple and comfortable. No drilling or anaesthetic is needed, the entire process takes around 10 minutes per tooth and is completely non-invasive.
Long-Lasting Protection
With proper care and routine check-ups, dental sealants can last between 5 and 10 years. Your dentist will monitor them at each visit and reapply if needed.
Cost-Effective Preventative Care
Sealants are significantly less expensive than treating cavities. Investing in sealants now can prevent the need for fillings, crowns or more complex treatment later.
Ideal for Children
Children aged 6–14 benefit most from sealants as their permanent molars erupt. Sealants protect these teeth during the years when children are at highest risk of cavities.
Easy to Monitor
Sealants are checked at every routine dental check-up. If any sealant is worn or chipped, it can be quickly repaired to maintain full protection.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, but they can also benefit adults who are at higher risk of cavities. Your dentist may recommend sealants if you have:
- Deep grooves or pits in the chewing surfaces of your back teeth
- A history of cavities in the back teeth
- Limited access to fluoridated water
- Difficulty maintaining effective oral hygiene due to tooth shape
- Children with newly erupted permanent molars (typically around age 6 and 12)
The best time to apply sealants is shortly after the permanent molars come through, before any decay can begin. Our team will assess your suitability during a routine check-up and recommend sealants where appropriate.
How Dental Sealants Are Applied
Clean & Prepare
The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried. An acidic gel is briefly applied to the tooth surface to create a slightly rough texture, which helps the sealant bond more effectively.
Rinse & Dry
The gel is rinsed off and the tooth is thoroughly dried again before the sealant is applied. This step ensures a strong, lasting bond.
Apply the Sealant
The liquid sealant material is painted onto the tooth surface, flowing into the grooves and pits. It is then cured with a special blue light that hardens the material in seconds.
Check the Bite
Once hardened, your dentist will check your bite to ensure the sealant sits comfortably. Any minor adjustments are made before you leave. You can eat and drink normally straight away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protect Your Family’s Teeth Today
Ask about dental sealants at your next check-up, or book an appointment to discuss whether sealants are right for you or your child.
Book an Appointment Contact UsGeneral dental information only. Individual suitability for dental sealants should be assessed by a qualified dentist. Health fund cover varies, confirm with your provider.
Important Information
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Treatment suitability, results and costs vary between patients.
A consultation with one of our dentists is required to assess whether this treatment is appropriate for you. Book a consultation or call 08 9256 2588.
References & Further Reading
This page is based on current clinical literature and guidelines from recognised Australian and international dental and health authorities.
- Australian Dental Association. ada.org.au
- Dental Board of Australia (AHPRA). dentalboard.gov.au
- Australian Society of Implant Dentistry (ASID). asid.com.au
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) - Medical Devices. tga.gov.au
- Australian Dental Association - Teeth.org.au Oral Health Advice. teeth.org.au
Content reviewed by Dr Desmond Ng, BDSc (Hons) University of Queensland | Principal Dentist, Dentists at Canning Vale. Last reviewed July 2026.