Protect Their Smiles Early On
Fissure Sealants
in Bunbury for Children’s Teeth
Preventing Cavities and Decay Before They Start
Not Sure If Sealants Are Right for Your Kid? Start Here
- Deep Molar Grooves
Children with deep pits or grooves on their chewing surfaces are often considered candidates for sealants for molars, as these areas are more challenging to keep clean with regular brushing.
- History of Cavities
Children who have had cavities in their baby teeth may be suitable for children’s dental sealants in Bunbury. They may be at higher risk of decay if their diet includes frequent snacking or sugary foods.
- Developing Oral Hygiene
Children still learning to brush effectively may be suitable candidates for fissure sealants. Their daily oral care routines may not fully clean the deep grooves found in their back teeth.
- Regular Dental Checkups
Children who attend regular checkups are often well-suited for preventive dental care for kids in Bunbury. Their oral health can be monitored to help decide when fissure sealants may be most appropriate.
Protect Your Child’s Teeth With These Proven Benefits
- Cavity Risk Reduction
Fissure sealants help reduce the risk of cavities in the deep grooves of back teeth. This is particularly useful during early school years when children may struggle to clean all tooth surfaces effectively through brushing alone.
- Non-Invasive Care
Sealants are a gentle, drill-free option that supports dental protection for kids. The application process is quick and straightforward, making it a suitable choice for children who feel nervous during routine dental appointments.
- Targeted Tooth Protection
Sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to protect the grooves that often trap food and develop decay. Children’s dental sealants in Bunbury are placed on molars, where plaque tends to accumulate.
- Timely Protection
Sealants are commonly used when children are still learning to brush effectively. They provide added protection during this stage, helping reduce cavity risk while oral hygiene habits are still forming.
We Accept CDBS—Check Your Child’s Eligibility Now
Book a visit today to see if your child qualifies for bulk-billed dental care under the CDBS. No referral is needed; just bring your Medicare details.
Why Bunbury Families Choose Us for Their Kids’ Smiles
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- We’re part of the Bunbury community, and many of us are parents ourselves. That means we understand local families, schools, and what makes kids feel safe and supported. Our team is here for the long haul. You can count on consistency, familiarity, and care from people who genuinely care about your child’s well-being.
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- Serving Since 2006
- For nearly 20 years, we’ve cared for Bunbury kids with kindness, patience, and clinical know-how. Generations of local families have grown up in our chairs, and some of those kids now bring in children of their own. We’re proud of that trust, and we work hard to earn it at every visit.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- Children’s dentistry is about more than teeth—it’s about building confidence and healthy habits early on. We make dental visits fun, friendly, and judgement-free. Whether your child is chatty or shy, nervous or fearless, we tailor every appointment to them. Plus, we offer checkups for the whole family in one spot—easy and convenient.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- No rushed appointments. No scary tools. Just plenty of time, gentle explanations, and a whole lot of patience. We know every child is different, and every parent wants what’s right for their child. That’s why we listen first, explain clearly, and work with you to help create a positive experience from the very start.
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- Driven by Our Values
- Honesty, integrity, and a genuine love for helping kids—that’s what drives our team. There’s no upselling or scare tactics, just thoughtful, age-appropriate care from people you can trust. We care for your child like we’d care for our own, always focused on comfort, safety, and building trust for the long term.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- Our kid-friendly technology helps make visits smoother and more comfortable. From gentle cleaning tools like EMS Airflow to low-radiation imaging and intraoral scanners, we use advanced tech to diagnose and care for young smiles with precision. All this while keeping things relaxed and simple for kids. Better tools mean better care, less stress, and more smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do fissure sealants work?
Fissure sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth. These grooves, called pits and fissures, often trap food and bacteria that a toothbrush can’t easily remove. Over time, this trapped debris may lead to tooth decay, especially in children or teenagers with deep grooves.
First, the tooth is cleaned. Then, a thin liquid sealant is applied, which flows into the tiny grooves. A special light hardens the material, forming a smooth surface that’s easier to keep clean. This protective layer helps keep out food particles and plaque in areas that are hard to reach. Sealants are often placed on molars that come through around the ages of six and twelve, when decay risk tends to increase. Fissure sealants support your child’s oral care, but brushing, flossing, and regular checkups are still essential.
At what age should fissure sealants be applied?
Fissure sealants are usually applied once the first adult molars come through, which is around the age of six. The second set of molars usually erupts around the age of twelve, and sealants can also be placed on those teeth. This timing helps protect the molars early before tooth decay can develop in the grooves. Sealants are most effective when applied soon after the tooth fully erupts and before any cavities have formed.
Do dental sealants wear down over time?
Yes, dental sealants can wear down gradually due to daily use, but this happens slowly and is usually not noticeable right away. Several factors can affect how long sealants continue to protect your teeth. These include:
- Chewing habits:
Biting hard foods like ice or opening packaging with teeth may wear out sealants more quickly. - Tooth grinding (bruxism):
Regular grinding, especially during sleep, can place extra pressure on the chewing surfaces of teeth. - Oral hygiene routine:
Poor brushing habits or a lack of regular checkups may increase the chance of sealants breaking down without being noticed. - Natural wear over time:
Even with good care, sealants may begin to wear down after three to five years of daily chewing and brushing.
How long do fissure sealants last?
The Cochrane Review on pit and fissure sealants highlights that they remain effective for up to five years. However, periodic resealing or touch-ups are often needed to extend their lifespan toward the ten-year mark. The longevity of fissure sealants depends on several key factors:
- Material type:
Resin-based sealants usually last longer than glass ionomer sealants, offering better long-term retention. - Application technique:
Proper isolation during placement helps the sealant bond securely to the tooth, reducing the risk of early failure. - Tooth eruption stage:
Sealants are more successful when applied to fully erupted teeth, as moisture control is easier during the procedure. - Oral hygiene:
Brushing twice daily and attending dental checkups support the sealant’s effectiveness and allow early detection of wear. - Biting and chewing habits:
Chewing on hard foods, such as nuts or ice, or grinding teeth can cause sealants to wear down sooner.
Can you eat after getting fissure sealants?
Yes, you can eat after having fissure sealants placed, usually right away, unless your dental professional advises otherwise. The sealant hardens quickly using a special curing light, eliminating the need for waiting time for it to set.
While regular meals can resume, some care is recommended in the first 24 hours to help the sealant settle properly. Here are a few helpful tips to follow after getting fissure sealants:
- Start with softer foods:
Choose foods like yoghurt, pasta, or bananas. These are gentle on newly sealed teeth. - Avoid sticky or hard snacks:
Chewing gum, hard lollies, or crunchy foods like popcorn may dislodge the sealant if eaten immediately. - Keep up with regular brushing:
Sealants protect the grooves of the teeth, but good hygiene is still essential for overall oral health. - Schedule regular checkups:
Sealants should be checked during dental visits to assess if they remain intact and effective.
How much do fissure sealants cost?
While specific pricing for fissure sealants in Bunbury may vary, the estimated range aligns with the national average of $40 to $100 per tooth. If you’re considering fissure sealants in Bunbury, our team at Eversmile Dental can walk you through the process and pricing. During your visit, our dental team will explain the procedure and provide an estimated cost. They’ll also share any other details you may need to make an informed choice about this preventive treatment.
Are sealants worth it?
Yes, fissure sealants are a worthwhile consideration for many children and teenagers as part of a preventive dental care plan. If you’re exploring fissure sealants in Bunbury, here are a few reasons why families often choose them:
- Help reduce decay in hard-to-clean areas:
Sealants protect the grooves of molars, where toothbrush bristles often can’t reach. This helps prevent plaque and food build-up. - Non-invasive and comfortable:
Applying a sealant is quick and doesn’t require needles or drilling. Most children tolerate the procedure well. - Cost-effective over time:
Sealants may reduce the need for future fillings or dental work, helping to lower long-term costs. - Easy to check and maintain:
Sealants are monitored during regular dental visits and can be retouched or reapplied if worn down.
Are sealants only for kids?
Fissure sealants are most commonly applied to children’s molars, but they can also benefit adults in some cases. Adults with deep grooves or no history of decay in those teeth may also be suitable candidates. Here are a few situations where sealants might be helpful beyond childhood:
- Deep grooves in molars:
If the chewing surfaces of the molars have deep or narrow pits, food and plaque can easily build up, even with regular brushing. - No previous fillings in molars:
Sealants are only applied to teeth free of decay and fillings, so adults with intact chewing surfaces may benefit. - Increased decay risk:
Adults undergoing orthodontic treatment, taking medications that reduce saliva, or experiencing dry mouth may be more prone to decay. - Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene:
Back teeth can be harder to clean for adults with alignment issues or limited hand movement.
Can you still get cavities under sealants?
Yes, while fissure sealants help lower the risk of tooth decay, cavities can still develop if certain conditions are present. Here are a few reasons why this may happen, even if a sealant is in place:
- Sealant wear or damage:
Over time, chewing and grinding can cause the sealant to wear down or chip, exposing the underlying tooth structure. - Incomplete cover:
If a sealant doesn’t fully cover the grooves, bacteria and food particles may still get trapped in those areas. - Poor oral hygiene:
Even with sealants, brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are needed to maintain overall oral health. - Tooth decay elsewhere on the tooth:
Sealants only protect the chewing surface, not the sides or the spaces between teeth.
What is the difference between a filling and a fissure sealant?
Although fissure sealants and fillings involve protecting teeth, they serve very different purposes. Sealants are preventive, while fillings are restorative. If you’re uncertain which kids’ tooth protection treatments in Bunbury apply to your situation, this table can help explain the key differences:
Category | Fissure Sealant | Filling |
Purpose | Prevents tooth decay by sealing deep grooves before cavities form | Manages teeth that already have decay or damage |
Tooth condition | Applied to healthy teeth with no signs of decay | Used when part of the tooth has been affected by decay |
When it’s used | As a preventive treatment, especially in children and teenagers | When a cavity is present and needs to be addressed |
Procedure | Quick, non-invasive, no drilling or anaesthetic required | Involves removing decay and restoring the tooth with filling material |
Materials used | Usually, a thin plastic resin or glass ionomer | Composite resin, amalgam, or other restorative materials |
What are the disadvantages or risks of fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants are generally safe and widely used, but like any dental treatment, they have some limitations and risks. Understanding these factors can help you make the right decisions about preventive dental care. Here are a few possible disadvantages to consider:
- Sealants can wear down over time:
Although durable, fissure sealants may chip or wear away due to chewing or grinding, especially if not monitored during checkups. - They only protect the sealed surface:
Sealants cover the grooves of back teeth but do not protect the sides or spaces between teeth, so those areas still need cleaning and care. - Not effective if decay is already present:
Fissure sealants are applied to healthy teeth. A filling or other treatment may be more appropriate if decay is already present. - May require reapplication:
If a sealant becomes damaged or worn, it may need to be reapplied. - Rare allergic reaction to material:
Allergic reactions to dental sealant material are extremely rare, but patients with known sensitivities should inform their dental provider.
