At Black Hills Area Dental, we offer dental sealants for the whole family. Dr. Samuelson and our hygiene team have the skill and experience to apply dental sealants for patients of all ages. Trust us to be your dental partner when you’re looking to keep your teeth happy and healthy.
Understanding Dental Sealants
While they won’t completely prevent cavities, plaque stays out of the deep grooves in premolars and molars after sealant liquid hardens. Sealants are ideal for adults and children of all ages.
Dr. Samuelson and our hygiene team have the precision and knowledge to apply sealants effectively. Our focus is patient education, and we work with you to make sure sealants are the best option for your smile.
At Black Hills Area Dental, we offer the highest-quality sealant materials. Dr. Samuelson and our hygiene team can discuss if this is the right option for you.
Advantages of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants offer many excellent benefits. Dr. Samuelson and our hygienists encourage our patients to get sealants for the following reasons:
- Increased protection against food and bacteria in the biting grooves on both primary and permanent teeth
- Relatively fast application
- More affordable than repairing cavities
- Safe for all ages
Dental Sealant Application Process
Dr. Samuelson and our hygiene team makes your dental sealant application comfortable and easy. We have experience working with patients who are anxious about the process and strive to make the appointment as enjoyable as possible. We’ll take the following steps to apply sealants:
- We perform a regular teeth cleaning.
- We roughen the teeth for better sealant application.
- We rinse and dry your teeth, then paint the sealant on the tooth surface.
- Then we will use a curing light to harden sealant on premolars and permanent molars.
We’ll provide aftercare instructions and can check sealants at your next appointment. Future sealant applications will be fast, easy, and effective.
Dental Sealant Services
Black Hills Area Dental is the area’s leader in dentistry. We strive to prevent tooth decay and help you or your family have healthy smiles. Our dental sealant services are the perfect solution.
Consider our dental sealants if you’re looking for an affordable way to fight against biting surface cavities. Learn more about the benefits of sealants by contacting Black Hills Area Dental in Rapid City, SD.
What are dental sealants, and how do they work?
Dental sealants are a preventative dental treatment designed to protect your teeth from cavities and decay. They are thin, protective coatings made of plastic or other dental materials that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, primarily the molars and premolars. These areas are particularly susceptible to cavities due to their grooves and pits, which can trap food particles and bacteria.
The application process is straightforward and painless. First, the tooth surface is cleaned and dried. Then, a special gel is applied to roughen the tooth surface, ensuring that the sealant adheres properly. After rinsing off the gel and drying the tooth again, the sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly and hardens. In some cases, a special light is used to help the sealant harden quickly.
Once in place, dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting the enamel from plaque and acids. They are particularly effective in children and teenagers, who are more prone to cavities, but adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if they have deep grooves in their teeth. Sealants can last several years before they need to be reapplied, making them a cost-effective measure for maintaining oral health.
Who should consider getting dental sealants in Rapid City?
Dental sealants are an excellent preventive measure for individuals of all ages, but certain groups can particularly benefit from them. Children and teenagers are the most common recipients of dental sealants. Since their molars emerge around ages 6 and 12, applying sealants soon after these teeth come in can protect them during the cavity-prone years of 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
How long do dental sealants last, and are they worth the investment?
Dental sealants are a long-lasting preventive measure, typically providing protection for up to 5 to 10 years. However, their longevity can vary based on factors such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and the natural wear and tear of your teeth. Regular dental check-ups are essential to ensure that the sealants remain intact and effective. During these visits, your dentist can assess the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary.
The investment in dental sealants is generally considered worthwhile due to their ability to significantly reduce the risk of cavities. By preventing decay, sealants can save you from more costly and invasive dental treatments in the future, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals. This makes them a cost-effective solution for maintaining oral health over time.
Are dental sealants safe, and do they have any side effects?
Dental sealants are considered safe and have been used effectively for decades. They are made from biocompatible materials that are safe for both children and adults. The application process is non-invasive and painless, requiring no drilling or anesthesia.
Some people may have concerns about the presence of bisphenol A (BPA) in dental sealants, as BPA is a chemical found in some plastics. However, the amount of BPA in dental sealants is extremely low and considered safe by the American Dental Association and other health organizations. The risk of exposure is minimal, especially when compared to the significant benefits sealants provide in preventing tooth decay.