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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sealants and Fluoride Treatment in Nanticoke
Sealants and fluoride can help protect children’s teeth from cavities. Nanticoke families can learn when they are recommended at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Nanticoke patients at our Port Dover office
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Two simple measures can help keep cavities away.
The chewing surfaces of back teeth have deep grooves where food and bacteria collect, and they are hard for children to brush thoroughly. Sealants are thin coatings painted into those grooves to block out decay. Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps repair early damage. Together, they are often recommended for children at risk of cavities.
Nanticoke families can ask about sealants and fluoride at their child’s checkup at our Port Dover office. The dentist or hygienist will assess your child’s teeth and cavity risk and explain whether these treatments would be beneficial.
Sealants
Sealants fill the grooves where cavities often start.
Protecting the grooves
Back teeth have pits and fissures that can trap food even with good brushing. A sealant is a liquid resin that flows into these grooves and hardens, creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean. It acts as a barrier between the enamel and bacteria. Sealants are not a replacement for brushing, but they add a layer of protection.
Which teeth benefit
Sealants are often recommended for permanent molars soon after they come in, typically around ages six and twelve. Baby molars with deep grooves may also benefit in some cases. The dentist will check the teeth for early decay before applying sealants and explain which teeth would benefit most for your child.
Fluoride
Fluoride helps teeth resist decay.
Strengthening enamel
Fluoride makes enamel more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars, and it can help reverse very early decay before it becomes a cavity. Professional fluoride treatments use a higher concentration than toothpaste, applied as a varnish, gel or foam. The hygienist will explain which form is used and how often it is recommended.
Professional and home fluoride
Fluoride toothpaste is the main source of fluoride for most children at home. Use an amount appropriate for your child’s age and supervise brushing so they spit rather than swallow. Ask the team about how much toothpaste to use and whether any additional fluoride is recommended for your child’s particular risk level.
The appointment
Both treatments are quick and painless.
Applying sealants
To apply sealants, the teeth are cleaned and dried, and a mild solution is used to prepare the surface. The sealant is painted onto the grooves and hardened with a curing light. No drilling or numbing is usually needed. The process takes just a few minutes per tooth, and children can eat normally afterward.
Applying fluoride
Fluoride varnish is painted onto the teeth with a small brush and sets quickly. Your child may be advised to avoid eating, drinking or brushing for a short time afterward so the fluoride can work. The team will give specific instructions. Some children notice a slight taste or texture that goes away after a while.
Ongoing care
Sealants and fluoride work best with good habits.
Checking sealants
Sealants can last several years, but they may chip or wear. The dentist checks them at regular visits and can repair or reapply them if needed. Avoid chewing ice or hard candies, which can damage sealants. If you notice a sealant has come off, mention it at your child’s next appointment.
Daily habits still matter
Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth and limiting sugary snacks and drinks remain essential. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces but not the spaces between teeth. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor your child’s teeth and recommend fluoride or sealants as their needs change.
Planning your appointment
Protective care for Nanticoke kids
Ask about sealants and fluoride when booking your child’s checkup at our Port Dover office. The team can assess your child’s cavity risk and explain which treatments may be helpful.
Mention any past cavities or concerns about brushing, and ask about sealants as new molars come in.
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.
At what age should my child get sealants?
Sealants are often recommended for permanent molars soon after they come in, around ages six and twelve. Some baby teeth may also benefit. The dentist will advise based on your child’s teeth and cavity risk.
Are sealants safe?
Sealants are widely used and considered safe. They are applied without drilling or numbing. If you have concerns about the materials, ask the dentist to explain what is used and why sealants are recommended.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last several years with good care, though they may wear or chip. The dentist checks them at regular visits and can repair or reapply them if needed to maintain protection.
Is fluoride varnish safe for young children?
Fluoride varnish is commonly used for children and applied in small amounts. The hygienist will explain how it is applied and any instructions afterward. Discuss any concerns with the dental team before treatment.
Does my child still need to brush with sealants?
Yes. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth but not the rest of the tooth or the spaces between teeth. Brushing twice daily and cleaning between teeth are still essential to prevent cavities.
Other ways to protect young teeth
Children’s Dentistry →Children’s Dental Exams →
Regular dental exams help catch changes early as children grow. See what a checkup involves for Nanticoke kids visiting our Port Dover family practice.
Children’s Cavity Treatment →
A child may report a sore tooth before you see anything. Nanticoke parents can learn how cavities are monitored or filled and how to prepare kids for the visit.