If your dentist has recommended dental sealants for you or your child, it’s natural to have a few questions. Many patients wonder:
Get answers to these questions about dental sealants below to discover their benefits and find out if they’re the right choice for your smile. If you’re ready to book an appointment for dental sealants, simply contact West Vancouver Dental or click below to book online now..
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Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars).
These areas are prone to trapping food and bacteria in deep grooves, making them more vulnerable to cavities—especially in children and teens.
The sealant acts as a barrier to protect enamel from plaque and acid, helping to prevent tooth decay.
Sealants are typically made from medical-grade plastic resins, sometimes containing a small amount of BPA.
However, the level of BPA is extremely low—far below what is considered harmful—and studies show that sealants are safe for both children and adults when applied and cured properly.
That being said, at West Vancouver Dental, we use a non-BPA product, so there is no BPA exposure!
The dental sealants procedure is quick, painless, and non-invasive.
Here’s what happens:
The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth, and no drilling or numbing is needed.
No, dental sealants do not hurt. The procedure is completely painless—no needles, no drilling, and no discomfort. This makes it ideal for young children or patients who are anxious about dental visits.
On average, dental sealants can last 5 to 10 years; however, for some people, they can last for decades, but they can wear down over time due to chewing and grinding. Your dentist will check them during regular exams and reapply them if needed.
Yes, dental sealants can be removed, but typically there’s no need unless they are damaged or need to be replaced. If removal is necessary, your dentist can easily do so without harming the tooth.
You may be wondering about the difference between a dental sealant vs filling.
So when comparing dental sealants vs fillings, think of sealants as protection, and fillings as a repair job after damage is done.
Seeing the difference in your child’s molars before and after dental sealants can be surprising. Before, the deep grooves are unprotected and harder to clean. After sealing, the grooves are smooth, making them easier to clean and less likely to trap food and bacteria.
Some patients ask about the dangers of dental sealants, often due to BPA concerns. It's important to know that the BPA exposure from sealants is minimal (non at all at West Vancouver Dental)—much lower than what you’d encounter from everyday items like plastic containers or dust.
Scientific evidence supports that dental sealants are safe, especially when considering their significant benefits in preventing tooth decay.
While not medically necessary in every case, dental sealants are highly recommended, especially for:
They’re a simple and cost-effective way to prevent decay before it starts—saving you from more invasive and expensive treatments later.
Yes—dental sealants are worth it, especially for kids and teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in molars. For a low-cost, one-time procedure, that’s a big return on investment for your oral health.
Dental sealants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your teeth from cavities. They’re safe, painless, and can save you or your child from more invasive dental work in the future.
If you have questions about sealants or want to know if they’re right for you or your child, talk to your dentist at your next appointment. You can also contact West Vancouver Dental for answers or click below to book online now.
