Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatment
in Calgary
Simple, painless protection that helps keep cavities away, for children and adults.
About Sealants and Fluoride
Preventing a cavity is easier, cheaper and more comfortable than treating one. Dental sealants and professional fluoride treatments are two quick, painless ways to strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay.
At West 17th Avenue Dental Care, we offer both as part of our general dentistry care for patients in SW Calgary. They are especially valuable for children, but adults who are prone to cavities can benefit too.
Dental Sealants
The chewing surfaces of your back teeth have deep grooves where food and bacteria collect, and a toothbrush can't always reach them. A dental sealant is a thin, tooth-coloured coating that is painted onto these surfaces and hardened with a special light. It seals out bacteria and food so cavities are much less likely to form.
- Placing a sealant is quick and painless, and no drilling or needles are needed.
- Sealants are most often recommended for children between the ages of 6 and 14, as their permanent molars come in.
- Sealants are checked at regular visits and can be repaired or replaced if they wear down.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps repair early damage before it becomes a cavity. A professional fluoride treatment, such as a varnish applied to the teeth, delivers a higher concentration than toothpaste.
- Application takes only a few minutes.
- Fluoride is recommended for children from about age two and can also help adults with a higher risk of decay, sensitive teeth or exposed roots.
- Your dentist will recommend how often you need it.
Who Should Have Sealants and Fluoride?
- Children whose permanent molars are coming in. See our kids dentist page for more about children's care.
- Patients with a history of cavities.
- Patients with deep grooves in their back teeth.
- Adults with dry mouth, gum recession or sensitive teeth.
- Anyone who wants an extra layer of protection against decay.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Cleaning. We clean and dry the teeth, often at the same time as your Teeth Cleanings or Dental Checkups.
Application. For sealants, we paint the coating onto the tooth and set it with a light. For fluoride, we apply a varnish or gel.
Instructions. We tell you how long to wait before eating and how to care for your teeth.
The whole process is quick and comfortable, which makes it a good fit for children.
Why Choose West 17th Avenue Dental Care
- More than 30 years serving Calgary families, with a clinic on 17th Avenue SW.
- A 4.9 Google rating from more than 200 reviews.
- A friendly team that makes children feel at ease.
- A multilingual team that speaks English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.
- Direct billing to most major insurance plans and the Canadian Dental Care Plan accepted.
- Open six days a week, with a free parking lot north of the building, accessible from 15th Street SW.
Cost of Sealants and Fluoride Treatment
The cost depends on the number of teeth sealed and the type of fluoride treatment. Many insurance plans cover preventive care for children, and we bill most major plans directly. The Canadian Dental Care Plan is also accepted. You can read more in our Financial Options section or call (403) 244-1124 for an estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They block out food and bacteria that cause cavities in the deep grooves of the teeth.
Are dental sealants only for kids?
No. Sealants are most often recommended for children between 6 and 14, but adults who are prone to cavities and have deep grooves in their back teeth can benefit too. Your dentist will advise you.
How does fluoride treatment protect my teeth?
Fluoride strengthens enamel, which makes teeth more resistant to acid from bacteria and sugars. It can also help repair very early damage before a cavity forms.
Is fluoride safe?
Professional fluoride treatments are applied in small, controlled amounts and are widely used in dental care. Your dentist will recommend the right type and frequency for you or your child and answer any questions you may have.
How much do sealants and fluoride cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on the number of teeth treated and the type of treatment. Call (403) 244-1124 and we will give you an estimate and help check your insurance or Canadian Dental Care Plan coverage.
Book Your Appointment
Ready for a Healthier Smile? New patients welcome, direct billing and 0% financing available. Call us at (403) 244-1124 or book online.