Gentle, Lasting Protection with Dental Sealants in Perth
Strengthen Your Smile
A Closer Look at How Dental Sealants Offer Protection
Tooth decay often begins in the deep grooves and pits of back teeth, where food and bacteria can collect. Even with regular brushing and flossing, these areas may be more difficult to clean thoroughly, leaving them more susceptible to plaque buildup. Children and teenagers, with newly erupted molars, can face particular challenges in keeping these surfaces clean. If left unmonitored, these grooves may develop early signs of decay, which would require more involved treatment later.
Dental sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They may help reduce the risk of decay by covering deep grooves and creating a smoother surface that’s easier to clean. Sealants are applied when clinically appropriate.
Treatment Eligibility
Could You Be a Candidate for Dental Sealants?
1Children with new molars
2 Teens with deep grooves
3 Adults with a cavity history
4 Patients with brushing challenges
Maintain a Healthy Smile with Regular Dental Visits—Book Today
Regular dental check-ups can help identify problems early and support long-term oral health. Book your appointment to stay proactive in maintaining your dental health.
Treatment Advantages
Dental Sealants and Their Place in Oral Health Care
Creates a protective barrier
Sealants are designed to form a smooth layer over your back teeth, helping shield hard-to-reach areas from food debris, plaque, and acids during everyday chewing and brushing.
Quick and gentle process
The application is straightforward—no drilling, no numbing, and often completed during a regular visit. This preventive step can help protect teeth from decay and support better oral health over time.
Supports fewer interventions
Sealants can help protect vulnerable areas in your back teeth and support long-term oral health when included as part of your regular dental care routine.
Smile Concerns Addressed
Oral Health Concerns That Dental Sealants May Help Manage
Enamel wear in the molar groove
When the grooves in your molars start to wear down, those spots can become harder to keep clean, and sealants may help by providing a protective layer that supports easier maintenance and overall oral health.
Plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas
Cleaning the grooves of your back teeth can be tricky, but sealants may help by smoothing those areas, making it harder for food and plaque to collect, especially after meals, when brushing doesn’t always reach every surface effectively.
Diet-related vulnerability
If you regularly enjoy things like soft drinks, lollies, chips, or white bread, sealants may help protect the grooves in your back teeth where food tends to stick, and brushing might not always be fully effective.
History of cavities in molars
Having had cavities in your molars before might mean those areas are more vulnerable, and sealants could be one way to help reduce plaque buildup in similar spots as part of your ongoing dental care.
Accessible Dental Care
Payment and Funding Options for Eligible Patients
We provide information about available payment and funding options that eligible patients may access to assist with managing treatment costs.
Disclaimer:
- Flexible payment options are available (e.g. Afterpay, Denticare, SuperCare).
- All payment plans and subsidies are subject to provider eligibility criteria, approval processes, and individual circumstances.
- Terms, conditions, fees, and lending criteria apply.
- Please speak with our team for full details before proceeding.
Afterpay
Afterpay enables eligible patients to spread dental treatment costs across four instalments. This option may assist with scheduled payments. Terms and conditions apply, and patients should confirm their eligibility before using this service.
Learn MoreDenticare
Denticare provides approved payment plan options for eligible patients. This option is subject to approval and eligibility criteria, and patients should confirm details directly with Denticare before starting treatment.
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Health Funds
We accept most major health funds for eligible dental services. Benefit amounts differ by fund and level of cover. Patients should confirm entitlements with their health fund before treatment, as benefits and gap payments vary between providers.
Learn MoreSuperCare
Through SuperCare, eligible patients may apply for early release of superannuation to fund approved dental treatments. This process is subject to ATO approval and strict eligibility criteria. Patients should confirm their eligibility before undergoing a procedure.
Learn MoreMPDSS
The Metropolitan Patient Dental Subsidy Scheme (MPDSS) may provide eligible patients with subsidised dental care. Availability depends on specific criteria set by government health services. Patients should confirm eligibility and conditions with their local health authority before booking.
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CDBS
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) provides eligible children aged 0–17 with access to certain dental services, funded by Medicare. Conditions and annual limits apply. Parents should confirm eligibility through Medicare before commencing treatment under the scheme.
Learn MoreDVA
Dental care may be available to eligible Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) health card holders. Treatment and benefits depend on card type and entitlements. Patients must confirm eligibility and requirements with DVA before accessing services.
Learn MoreHealth Funds
We Accept Most Health Funds for Transparent, Easy-to-Manage Dental Visits
Meet Your Dentists
Dedicated Dental Team Focused on Comfort and Care
Dr. Karthik is a fully qualified dentist with more than 23 years of clinical experience. Since completing his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2002, he has developed a strong interest in surgical procedures, dental implantology, and clear aligner systems. He holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Implantology from UCLA and has undergone comprehensive training in digital treatment planning and orthodontic aligner therapy.
His work is primarily focused on surgical extractions, implant placement, and managing complex treatment plans. He is dedicated to continuous learning and consistently integrates evidence-based techniques into his daily practice. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys playing backyard cricket and badminton with his sons, as well as practising mindfulness and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Dr. Karthik earned a Master’s in Clinical Implantology from UCLA, focusing on implant systems, surgical techniques, and oral rehabilitation.
Dr. Behnoush is a dentist with more than 15 years of clinical experience. She gained her qualification through the Australian Dental Council in 2008 and has been practising in the country since 2009. She communicates clearly with patients and takes time to explain treatment options, especially during procedures that may be new or feel overwhelming.
She provides care across all aspects of general dentistry, with special interests in Invisalign, cosmetic treatments, and restorative work, such as crowns and bridges. She is dedicated to continuous learning and regularly attends continuing education programs. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys family time, active living, and being engaged in her local community.
Dr. Behnoush is a member of the Australian Dental Association and upholds national clinical standards and professional codes of conduct.
As a Senior Dentist, Dr. Julija focuses on preventive care and communication. She completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2006 and has more than 15 years of experience. Her calm, friendly approach helps patients feel at ease. She takes the time to explain treatment options and values building lasting relationships through clear and respectful communication.
She provides a wide range of dental services, including preventive, cosmetic, paediatric, extraction, and alignment treatments. She tailors treatment plans to each individual and stays current with evolving techniques. She enjoys cooking and cycling and regularly joins her family in the City to Surf walking challenge, combining fitness with community involvement.
Dr. Julija participates in professional development courses both domestically and internationally to stay current with the latest developments in dentistry.
Dr. Julija is a member of the Australian Dental Association - Western Australia (ADAWA), upholding ethical practice and professional standards in dentistry.
Dr. Siddharth is a dentist providing prosthodontic and implant care. He also provides restorative care, including dentures, crowns and bridges, veneers, and full mouth rehabilitation. He focuses on detail and long-term treatment planning, using a methodical approach shaped by patient goals and needs. His calm and clear communication helps patients navigate their treatment with clarity and understanding.
He enjoys creative pursuits, such as drawing, sketching, cooking, and dancing. These interests reflect his attention to shape, form, and balance—qualities that align with his approach to dental restoration and aesthetics. He works closely with patients on treatment options that are functional and designed with comfort and longevity in mind.
Dr. Siddharth completed his dental degree in India prior to registering locally, adding international clinical training to his restorative and implant work.
- Dr. Siddharth is a Fellow of the Indian Society of Oral Implantologists (ISOI), a professional body dedicated to implant training and clinical development.
- He also holds a Fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), an organisation that promotes global collaboration in implant dentistry.
Dr. Abha is a dentist with a Master’s degree in Periodontology and Implantology. She gained her dental qualification in India and registered with the Australian Dental Council. Her background in surgical and implant dentistry is combined with a calm, clear approach to patient care. She focuses on communication and helping patients understand treatment options that suit their individual needs.
She provides preventive, surgical, and implant treatment with careful attention to detail. She applies modern techniques guided by current research and encourages patients to remain committed to their oral health. Outside of dentistry, she spends her time with family, reading, listening to music, travelling, and exploring new places and cultures.
- Dr. Abha completed a Master’s degree in Periodontology and Implantology in India before gaining registration to practise dentistry locally.
- She frequently attends workshops and conferences domestically and internationally to maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in clinical techniques.
- Dr. Abha is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), an international organisation focused on education in implant dentistry.
Dr. Amy joined the team after completing her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Western Australia. She also holds a PhD in Materials Science from Curtin University, which provided valuable insight into dental materials and their clinical performance. She provides general dental care with a particular interest in implants, orthodontics, and clear aligner treatment, such as Invisalign.
She engages in continuing professional education to stay aligned with advancements in general and restorative dentistry techniques. She takes care to create a calm, comfortable environment, especially for patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. She is fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese and communicates clearly with patients of all backgrounds.
Dr. Bashi offers preventive, restorative, paediatric, endodontic, prosthodontic, and minor oral surgery care in both private and community settings. Her background in clinical dentistry and public health shapes her patient-focused approach, particularly in education and prevention. She communicates clearly with patients of all ages and is committed to providing care that is personalised and responsive to each patient’s unique needs and treatment goals.
During her postgraduate studies, she completed an internship with a healthcare consulting team, contributing to public health projects in various regions. She continues to pursue professional development and enjoys combining clinical care with broader health perspectives. In her spare time, she enjoys basketball, scenic photography, video editing, travel, and exploring diverse cuisines.
Dr. Bashi completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka before gaining registration to practise in the country.
- Dr. Bashi is a member of the Australian Dental Association and follows its standards for continuing education and ethical patient care.
- She is also registered with the Sri Lanka Medical Council, reflecting her international clinical training and professional background.
Dr. Neha is a general dentist with postgraduate training in paediatric dentistry and over 13 years of clinical experience. She worked for nine years in Abu Dhabi, focusing on children's oral health. She recently gained her local registration through the Australian Dental Council and now provides care to patients of all ages, including restorative, preventive, and paediatric dentistry.
She has a particular interest in root canal therapy, minimally invasive treatment, and inhalation sedation for anxious patients. She values communication and clarity in every appointment and aims to create a calm environment tailored to each patient’s needs. Her interests outside of dentistry include travel, creative writing, and spending time with her family.
Dr. Neha holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Master’s in Paediatric Dentistry and has worked clinically in Abu Dhabi for over nine years.
Dr. Karthika completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India and worked in both public and private clinics before settling in Perth. She provides general and restorative care, with a strong interest in preventive dentistry and early intervention. She values collaboration and patient education, helping patients feel more comfortable in making informed choices about their dental care.
She continues to expand her clinical knowledge through continuous professional development. She works gently and thoughtfully with nervous patients, helping them feel more at ease during their appointments. Aside from her work in dentistry, she enjoys gardening, trying new recipes, tackling home DIY projects, and sharing meals with family and friends.
Dr. Karthika earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery overseas and later gained registration to practise as a general dentist locally.
ANSWERS YOU NEED
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental sealants, and how do they work?
The dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from tooth-coloured resin. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—especially molars and premolars—to help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Here’s how dental sealants work:
- Sealants are made from a tooth-coloured resin material that is applied to the enamel surface and designed to bond with the tooth. Over time, sealants may wear down and require reapplication by your dentist.
- They apply to the natural grooves and pits of molars and premolars, where plaque and food particles tend to build up.
- A special curing light is used to harden the sealant once it is in place. It makes a smooth, protective layer over the tooth.
- This layer helps reduce the risk of decay by making the tooth surface easier to clean and less likely to trap bacteria.
- Sealants are most beneficial when applied early, before decay has started, usually after adult molars erupt in children and teens.
How long do dental sealants last before they need to be checked or replaced?
Dental sealants are designed to provide durable protection against tooth decay, particularly on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Their longevity depends on several factors, including the type of material used, application technique, and regular dental maintenance.
According to a 2023 review published in Frontiers in Oral Health, resin-based sealants can maintain around 80% retention after two years and provide cavity prevention benefits for up to five years or more. Sealant success rate is closely linked to proper technique—long-term effectiveness depends on precise moisture control during application and consistent follow-up care.
General Guidelines Based on Clinical Evidence:
- Initial Check:
Sealants should be examined within the first 6–12 months to verify proper bonding and retention. - Routine Monitoring:
During your regular dental visits (every 6–12 months), your dentist will check the condition of each sealant and reapply if necessary. - Replacement or Reapplication:
While clinical studies help estimate how long dental sealants last—often 5 years or more—some may require reapplication or replacement if worn, chipped, or lost.
Are dental sealants worth it for children and teens?
A dental sealant—often referred to as tooth sealants for children—is a recognise preventive measure for kids and teens, offering vital protection for newly erupted molars during the high-risk cavity years of ages 6 to 14.
A large-scale study by Dental Health Services Victoria found that sealants significantly lowered the rate of tooth decay in over 700 children aged 6–12 across 15 Melbourne schools, even when wear occurred over time.
Key findings from the study:
- Teeth with fully retained sealants had a decay rate of just 0.4%.
- Even teeth with partially retained or missing sealants showed a relatively low decay rate of 4.5%, compared to much higher rates seen in unsealed teeth.
These findings suggest that dental sealants offer substantial protection, even with some degree of wear, by helping to reduce food and plaque accumulation in deep grooves and fissures.
Why aren’t dental sealants commonly recommended for adults?
Dental sealants are most often used for children and teenagers because they work most effectively when applied to newly erupted adult molars, before any decay or fillings have occurred. For many adults, previous dental work or wear can reduce the effectiveness of sealants, which is a common disadvantage of dental sealants in older patients.
However, in some cases, sealants may still be a worthwhile preventive option for adults.
- Adults with deep grooves or pits that haven’t been affected by decay may still be suitable candidates for sealants, as these areas remain difficult to clean and prone to plaque accumulation.
- Adults with a higher risk of tooth decay, such as those with dry mouth (xerostomia), medical conditions, or limited access to fluoride, may benefit from sealants as an added preventive measure.
- Adults who haven’t previously had restorative dental work on their molars may be eligible for sealants if their teeth are still intact and cavity-free.
Do dental sealants help prevent cavities?
Yes, dental sealants are a preventive option that plays a crucial role in cavity prevention for kids, especially by protecting back molars, where toothbrushes often miss the deep grooves.
Here’s how dental sealants for cavity prevention work to protect vulnerable tooth surfaces and minimise the risk of decay.
They help block out food and bacteria: Sealants for molars are designed to cover the natural pits and grooves in these teeth, helping to reduce the buildup of plaque and food particles in areas that are harder to clean.
- They create a smoother surface:
Keep daily brushing more effective by reducing the areas where plaque can hide. - They offer early protection:
Applying dental sealants shortly after molar eruptions provides extra defence during the years when teeth are most vulnerable to decay. - They’re durable and easy to maintain:
Applying sealants can last for several years with regular checkups, offering ongoing support in your overall oral care routine.
We provide guidance on sealants during your checkup, including suitability, dental sealant cost, and any influencing factors.
What is the difference between a sealant and a filling?
Both sealants and fillings play a role in protecting your teeth, but they serve very different purposes. One is used to help prevent decay, while the other is designed to restore a tooth after decay has occurred.
| Feature | Dental Sealant | Dental Filling |
| Purpose | Helps prevent cavities by sealing vulnerable areas | Restores a tooth following decay or damage |
| When it’s used | On healthy teeth—usually molars—before decay starts | On teeth where decay has formed and needs to be addressed |
| Procedure | The tooth is cleaned, coated, and sealed | Involves removing decay and placing filling material |
| Pain or anaesthetic | Usually well-tolerated; rarely requires drilling or numbing | May involve numbing and some drilling |
| Who is it for | Often recommended for children and teens; suitable for some adults | Suitable for patients of all ages with tooth decay |
| Longevity | It can last several years with proper care and regular checkups. | Long-lasting; may require replacement after several years |
| Material used | Thin resin coating applied to the chewing surfaces | Composite resin, amalgam, or other restorative materials |
Are dental sealants safe, and do they have side effects?
The dental sealant safety is well-established—sealants are a well-researched way to help protect teeth from decay, especially in children and teens. They’ve been used in the general practice of dentistry for decades with minimally reported issues.
While side effects are uncommon, they can include the following:
- Temporary tooth sensitivity:
Some patients may notice mild sensitivity after application, but this usually subsides within 1 to 3 days without treatment. - Allergic reaction to materials:
Although rare, a mild allergic response may occur if a person is sensitive to components in the resin. Your dentist will review your medical history beforehand to mitigate this risk. - Wear or partial loss of sealant over time:
Sealants can gradually chip or wear down with chewing, which may reduce their protective effect. Regular dental checkups help verify that they remain intact and effective.
Do dental sealants contain BPA or other controversial materials?
Some resin-based dental sealants may contain tiny amounts of bisphenol A (BPA)—a compound sometimes found in plastics. According to both the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), any BPA detected in dental materials is minimal and unintentional and currently shows no evidence of harm at these low levels.
What You Need to Know as a Patient:
- BPA is not intentionally added to dental sealants; trace amounts may result from the resin manufacturing process.
- Exposure is extremely low and occurs primarily within the first 24 hours after application, decreasing rapidly thereafter.
- Current evidence does not suggest long-term harm from these trace levels, and dental materials are closely regulated in Australia.
- The ADA supports the use of resin-based sealants as an effective method to help prevent dental caries, particularly in children.
Concerns about BPA are common, and many patients ask, ‘Do sealants contain BPA?’ Your dentist can explain BPA-free alternatives and how exposures are minimised.
Can a child still get cavities under dental sealants?
Yes, a child can still develop cavities under or around a dental sealant. However, when a dentist applies the sealant properly and regularly checks it, such damage is rare.
Here’s what every parent should understand about sealants and cavity prevention.
- Sealants protect the grooves of molars and premolars but don’t cover between teeth or flat surfaces.
- If a sealant is worn or not properly bonded, it can allow bacteria to enter and cause decay.
- Good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and the use of fluoride, remains essential for comprehensive mouth protection.
- Routine dental visits help preserve the integrity of sealants and allow for timely reapplication or replacement if necessary.
What happens during a dental sealant appointment?
A dental sealant appointment is generally a straightforward procedure that can be completed in one visit, without the need for drilling or anaesthesia. Here’s what you or your child can expect during the process:
- Tooth cleaning:
The dentist or hygienist gently cleans the chewing surface to clean out plaque or debris, creating a clean base for the sealant. - Tooth preparation:
A mild etching solution is applied to the enamel to create a slightly rough surface, helping the sealant bond securely. - Sealant application:
The liquid sealant is carefully painted into the grooves of the tooth, where decay is most likely to occur. - Curing the material:
A special light is used to harden the sealant, forming a durable, protective barrier over the tooth. - Final assessment:
The dentist checks the sealant to verify it has set properly and confirms that the bite feels comfortable and natural.
Do you need anaesthetic or numbing for sealant application?
No anaesthetic or numbing is usually not required during dental sealant application. Both children and adults generally tolerate the simple process well.
Here’s why sealants don’t require numbing:
- The procedure involves no drilling or removal of tooth structure.
- The tooth surface is cleaned and dried before applying dental sealants—no cutting or pressure is involved.
- A mild etching solution is used to prepare the enamel, which may have a slightly sour taste but does not cause pain.
- The sealant is applied and hardened with a special light, forming a protective layer that does not affect nerves or soft tissues.
- Patients usually find the procedure comfortable, and it can be completed quickly during a regular dental visit.
