A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. This is where decay most often occurs.

(See more information below.)

A sealant prevents tooth decay. It covers the pits and grooves of chewing surfaces and seals out decay-causing food and germs.

Side view of narrow groove on top surface of tooth compared to single toothbrush bristle.

Sealants are most beneficial if they are placed on permanent molars as soon as the teeth come in.

The first permanent molars grow in between the ages of 5 and 7. The second permanent molars grow in between the ages of 11 and 14.

A sealant is placed by a dental professional. The procedure is simple and painless. It takes only a few minutes. The tooth is cleaned and treated with a solution that allows the sealant to stick to the tooth. Sealants are painted on as a liquid and quickly harden to form a shield over the tooth.

Sealants can last for up to 10 years. They can be checked at dental visits to see if they need to be replaced.

Fluoride makes teeth more resistant to decay and can repair tiny areas of decay before they become big cavities. The most common sources of fluoride are toothpaste or fluoridated water. Both sealants and fluoride are recommended for best protection against tooth decay.

Chewing surface of teeth before sealant is applied

Chewing surface of teeth when sealant is applied

Children need to have their teeth and gums cleaned daily to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Parents need to help children learn oral hygiene skills.

• A parent should supervise brushing for children under age 8.
• Brush twice a day - in the morning and at bedtime.
• A thorough brushing takes 2-3 minutes.
• Use a soft bristled toothbrush.
• If you are not sure if your child is at risk for tooth decay, ask a health professional.
• Use a toothbrush moistened with water for children under age 3 when not at risk for tooth decay.
• Use fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice for children under age 3 when at risk for tooth decay. 
• Use a pea-size portion of fluoride toothpaste for children over age 3.  The toothpaste should be approved by the Canadian Dental Association. 
• Children should spit out toothpaste. Swallowing toothpaste should be discouraged.
• Replace toothbrushes every three months. If your child has just recovered from an illness, use a new toothbrush.

• Flossing helps to prevent gum disease.
• Flossing cleans between teeth and under the gums where the toothbrush cannot reach.
• A parent will need to floss their child's teeth until around age 9. Usually by this time the child should be able to floss on his/her own.

• Encourage healthy snacks.
• Reduce how often snacks are offered, especially sticky foods that cling to teeth.
• Eat sweets at the end of a meal. Increased saliva flow during meals helps reduce the effects of harmful acids.
• Choose milk or water more often than sugary drinks.

• Visit the dentist regularly - at least once a year.