The chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars) have deep grooves and pits where food and bacteria easily get trapped, even with careful brushing. Dental Sealants are a powerful yet simple defense. At Dr 7 Family Dentistry, we apply a thin, protective coating to these vulnerable areas, effectively blocking decay-causing bacteria and preventing up to 80% of cavities in the back teeth.
A dental sealant is a thin, liquid plastic material that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the premolars and molars. These back teeth are the most cavity-prone because their intricate anatomy makes them difficult to clean thoroughly. The sealant material flows into the deep grooves (fissures), creating a smooth, hard protective barrier. This barrier:
The application is entirely preventive and requires no drilling or injections.
Sealants are highly effective, proven to prevent 8 out of 10 cavities on the chewing surfaces, which are the sites where over 80% of decay occurs in children.
The procedure requires no removal of tooth structure, no shots, and no drilling. It is quick, comfortable, and stress-free for children.
With proper care, sealants can remain intact and functional for many years, providing continuous defense throughout the most cavity-prone years of childhood and adolescence.
The low cost of a sealant is a significant saving compared to the higher expense and time required to treat a fully developed cavity with a dental filling.
The application of dental sealants at Dr 7 Family Dentistry is typically completed in just a few minutes per tooth:
The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried to remove any food debris or plaque from the grooves.
A mild acid solution (etchant) is applied for a few seconds. This creates a slightly rough surface on the enamel, which is necessary to help the sealant bond securely.
The liquid sealant material is carefully painted directly into the pits and fissures of the chewing surface.
A special curing light is used for a few seconds to harden the liquid sealant, turning it into a durable plastic shield. The tooth is ready for chewing immediately afterward.
Sealants are primarily a pediatric and adolescent preventive measure but can benefit certain adults:
The best time to apply sealants is immediately after the permanent back teeth (molars and premolars) erupt into the mouth, before bacteria have a chance to settle into the grooves.
Adults who do not have existing fillings on their molars but have naturally deep, intricate pits and fissures, or those who have dry mouth/high decay risk.
Sealants can sometimes be used to stop the progression of very early, non-cavitated lesions (decay that has not yet broken through the enamel).
Dental sealants are a preventive treatment commonly recommended for children and teens to help protect molars from tooth decay. Coverage for sealants is often included in many dental insurance plans for eligible age groups, though limits may apply.
Dr7 Family Dentistry accepts the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) for eligible patients. Coverage for dental sealants under CDCP depends on age, oral health needs, and program guidelines. Our team will review your eligibility and explain any associated costs before treatment.
For patients without insurance or CDCP coverage, dental sealants are generally affordable, and pricing is discussed in advance.
At Dr7 Family Dentistry, our dentists are committed to providing high-quality, patient-focused dental care for individuals and families in Thornhill. We take a thoughtful approach to dentistry, focusing on clear communication, comfort, and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
Our team has experience across preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. We proudly accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) for eligible patients and help guide you through coverage details and treatment options before care begins.
At Dr7 Family Dentistry, we focus on providing reliable, patient-centred dental care for individuals and families in Thornhill. Our approach is built on clear communication, thoughtful treatment planning, and consistent care that supports long-term oral health.
Our clinic uses up-to-date dental technology to support accurate diagnoses, efficient treatment, and patient comfort during every visit.
Our dentists and clinical staff bring experience across preventive, family, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. We take the time to assess your needs carefully and explain treatment options clearly.
We accept most dental insurance plans and proudly participate in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) for eligible patients. Our team explains coverage and costs in advance so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
We offer flexible scheduling and emergency dental appointments when available to help address urgent dental concerns without unnecessary delays.
Sealants can last 5 to 10 years or even longer. They are checked during every dental exam, and if they become chipped or worn, they can be easily reapplied in minutes.
No. The procedure is completely painless. It involves no drilling and no injections, just a simple cleaning and painting process.
If a sealant feels loose or falls off completely, there is no emergency. Simply contact Dr 7 Family Dentistry and schedule a quick appointment to have the sealant replaced, which is often done at no charge.
Yes. While coverage may be different, sealants are an excellent preventive option for adults who have deep grooves and no previous fillings in those molars.
