NEUTRAL BAY | GENERAL & PREVENTATIVE DENTISTRY
Dental Sealants (Fissure Sealants)
Protect your teeth before cavities form
A quick, painless treatment that seals deep grooves in your back teeth — helping prevent decay before it starts.
What are fissure sealants?
Dental sealants — also known as fissure or tooth sealants — are a tooth-coloured coating typically applied to the naturally occurring grooves of the back teeth (molars and premolars), where food and bacteria can get trapped and cause decay. By sealing these areas, we help protect your teeth from cavities, keeping them healthier for longer. They’re completely painless, non-invasive, and can last several years before needing to be reapplied.
How do fissure sealants work?
Fissure sealants fill in the natural tiny & deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to clean and less likely to trap food or plaque. This means your teeth are less likely to develop cavities.
What happens during a dental sealant procedure?
We’ll clean the tooth, apply a special gel, rinse, then paint on the sealant. A curing light hardens the coating in seconds — no drilling or needles needed.
Do dental sealants hurt?
Not at all. Sealant treatment is painless — no needles, no drilling. It’s just a quick clean, application, and light to set the material.
How long do dental sealants last?
Sealants can last several years with good oral hygiene. We check their condition at each dental visit and reapply if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should get dental sealants?
Sealants are ideal for children after their adult molars come in (around ages 6–12), but adults with deep grooves or a history of cavities can also benefit.
Are dental sealants just for kids?
No — while most common in children, adults with cavity-prone back teeth can also benefit from sealants as a preventive measure.
Are dental sealants safe?
Yes. They’re non-toxic, completely safe, and commonly used for both children and adults. The process is quick and non-invasive.
Can dental sealants fall off or wear down?
Yes, over time. Hard chewing (like nuts) or grinding can wear them down, which is why regular dental check-ups are important to maintain protection.
Do I still need to brush and floss if I have sealants?
Absolutely. Sealants only protect the chewing surface — brushing, flossing, and regular cleans are still essential for full-mouth health.
How much do dental sealants cost?
The cost depends on how many teeth are being sealed. At Oaks Dental, we’ll provide a personalised quote, but sealants are very affordable, especially compared to the cost of treating a cavity later.
Are dental sealants covered by private health insurance?
Many health funds cover dental sealants, especially for children. We can help you check your eligibility at your appointment.
Not sure what fissure sealants are? We’ll guide you.
Fissure sealants are a painless way to prevent cavities in the grooves of your back teeth. If you’ve never heard of them before, don’t worry — we’ll help you understand your options with no pressure.