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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sealants and Fluoride Treatment in Jarvis
Sealants protect the grooves of back teeth and fluoride strengthens enamel. Learn how these preventive steps can help Jarvis children and when the dentist suggests them.
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Every dental service for Jarvis patientsExtra protection for growing teeth
Two simple steps can help keep cavities away.
Back teeth have deep grooves where food and bacteria easily collect, and toothbrush bristles cannot always reach them. Sealants are thin coatings painted onto these grooves to create a smoother, easier-to-clean surface. Fluoride, applied as a varnish or gel, helps strengthen enamel and can reverse very early decay.
These preventive treatments can be added to a child’s regular visit at our Port Dover office. Jarvis parents are welcome to ask whether their child’s teeth and cavity risk make them a good fit.
Why protect
Some teeth and some children are more at risk.
Vulnerable grooves
The first permanent molars usually appear around age six and the second around age twelve. Their chewing surfaces have pits and fissures that trap food. Even children who brush well may struggle to clean these areas. Sealing them soon after they erupt can help protect them during the years when cavities are most likely.
Factors that raise cavity risk
Frequent snacking, sugary drinks, past cavities, braces, dry mouth and difficulty brushing all increase risk. Children with special health care needs may also benefit from extra protection. The dentist considers these factors when recommending sealants or more frequent fluoride applications.
Sealants
Sealants are quick and do not require freezing.
The application process
The tooth is cleaned and dried, and a mild solution is applied to help the sealant bond. After rinsing and drying again, the liquid sealant is painted into the grooves and hardened with a curing light. The process takes only a few minutes per tooth and is usually comfortable.
Checking the result
The dentist checks that the sealant is well bonded and the bite feels normal. Your child may notice a slightly different feeling at first. Sealants are checked at future visits and can be repaired or reapplied if they wear or chip. They do not replace brushing and flossing.
Fluoride
Fluoride strengthens enamel against acid.
How fluoride helps
Fluoride makes enamel more resistant to the acids produced by bacteria and helps rebuild weakened areas before they become cavities. Professional fluoride treatments contain a higher concentration than toothpaste, offering extra protection, especially for children at higher risk of decay.
Applying varnish
Fluoride varnish is painted onto the teeth and sets quickly. Your child may be asked to avoid eating hard foods or brushing for a few hours afterward. The dentist will recommend how often fluoride treatments should be repeated based on your child’s risk.
At home
Prevention continues every day at home.
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste
Use fluoride toothpaste twice daily in an amount appropriate for your child’s age, a smear for very young children and a pea-sized amount for older ones. Supervise brushing until your child has the skill to do it well. Encourage spitting out rather than swallowing toothpaste.
Snacks and drinks
Limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals and offer water instead of juice or pop. Sticky foods can cling to grooves even with sealants. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor sealants and catch any early decay while it is easy to treat.
Planning your appointment
Adding protection for your Jarvis child
Call our Port Dover office to ask about sealants or fluoride at your child’s next visit. Let us know if your child has had cavities or new molars coming in.
Mention any concerns about fluoride so the dentist can discuss its benefits and appropriate use for your child.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Sealant and fluoride questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last several years but may wear or chip. The dentist checks them at regular visits and repairs or reapplies them as needed.
Is fluoride safe for children?
When used in appropriate amounts, fluoride is considered safe and effective for preventing decay. Use the right amount of toothpaste and follow the dentist’s advice.
Do sealants hurt?
No. Sealants are painted on without drilling or freezing. The process is quick and usually comfortable for children.
Can adults get sealants?
Sometimes. Adults with deep grooves and no fillings in those teeth may benefit. Ask the dentist whether sealants are appropriate for you.
Which teeth get sealants?
Usually the permanent molars, which have deep grooves. Some premolars or baby molars may also be sealed depending on risk. The dentist will recommend which teeth.
Related preventive care for kids
Children’s Dentistry →Children’s Dental Exams →
Routine exams track how a child’s teeth, bite and jaws develop. Jarvis families can book children’s checkups at our Port Dover office and ask questions along the way.
Children’s Cavity Treatment →
When a child’s tooth has a cavity, Jarvis parents can learn how decay is assessed, how fillings are explained to kids and how to prevent new spots at home.