Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from a tooth-coloured resin or plastic material. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—the molars and premolars—where deep grooves and pits are most likely to trap food, bacteria, and plaque.
Sealants act as a barrier, preventing decay-causing substances from penetrating these vulnerable areas. While sealants are most commonly recommended for children, they can also be beneficial for teenagers and adults who are prone to cavities.
Dental sealants are a preventive measure designed to:
Protect the deep grooves and fissures of back teeth where toothbrush bristles can't easily reach
Reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities
Support long-term oral health in children and young adults
Prevent future need for fillings, root canals, or more complex treatments
Offer extra protection for patients with special needs, orthodontic appliances, or dietary risk factors
Applying dental sealants is quick, comfortable, and non-invasive. No drilling or anaesthesia is required. Here’s how the process works at York House Dental Practice:
The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque and food particles.
The tooth surface is dried and a special solution is applied to help the sealant bond properly to the enamel.
The sealant material is carefully painted onto the grooves of the tooth. It flows into the crevices and is then cured (hardened) with a special light.
Once the sealant is set, we check the bite to ensure everything feels natural and make any necessary adjustments.
The entire procedure takes just a few minutes per tooth and can easily be completed during a routine check-up or hygiene visit.
Offers long-lasting protection against cavities
Shields hard-to-reach areas from bacteria and plaque
Reduces the risk of fillings, crowns, or root canals later in life
Safe and effective for both children and adults
Quick and painless application
Cost-effective preventive solution
Blends naturally with the colour of your teeth
Studies show that sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%, especially in children aged 6 to 14.
Caring for your sealants is simple and involves maintaining good oral hygiene habits:
Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque and debris between teeth
Avoid chewing on very hard or sticky foods (like ice or toffees), which may damage sealants
Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of the sealants
Let your dentist know if you notice a sealant has chipped or worn down so it can be repaired or replaced
Sealants can last 5 to 10 years with proper care and regular maintenance.
Sealants are most commonly recommended for:
Children: Usually applied to permanent molars shortly after they erupt (around age 6 and again at age 12)
Teenagers: Who may be at risk for cavities in their back teeth
Adults: With deep grooves in molars or a history of dental decay
Patients with orthodontic appliances: Braces and aligners can make cleaning more difficult, increasing cavity risk
During your examination, we will evaluate whether sealants are a good preventive option for you or your child.
At York House Dental Practice, we are committed to preventive dentistry that protects and preserves your smile. Families across West Byfleet and surrounding areas trust us for honest advice, expert care, and a calm, patient-friendly environment.
When you choose us for dental sealants, you benefit from:
A caring and experienced dental team
Tailored preventive care for children, teens, and adults
Safe, BPA-free sealant materials
State-of-the-art technology and gentle techniques
Clear explanations and no-pressure advice
We take the time to help every patient feel confident and informed about their dental care choices.
Don’t wait for a cavity to form. Take a proactive step in protecting your smile or your child’s with dental sealants at York House Dental Practice.
