Dental Sealants in Reno, Nevada
Though traditionally placed on children when their adult teeth first appear, dental sealants are recommended for patients of all ages who want to protect their teeth from cavities. A sealant is a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often begins. When patients choose to place sealants on their teeth, they are choosing to take a preventative approach to tooth decay, rather than a curative approach with fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They create a barrier that keeps out food and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities. You can think of sealants like the caulking around tile flooring, used to keep out dirt and grime. Sealants are not fillings and do not require numbing for placement. Dental sealants are safe, effective, and a great option for preventing cavities in both children and adults at Swanson Dental Group in Reno.
Sealants are often recommended for children and teens, since the risk of developing cavities is higher in this age group. However, adults can also benefit from this preventive service. Dr. Swanson may suggest sealants for anyone at higher risk of tooth decay.
Applying sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Generally, no drilling or numbing is needed. First, the tooth is cleaned and dried. Then a special gel prepares the surface and the sealant is painted onto the tooth. Finally, the sealant is hardened using a curing light. The whole process usually takes about one minute per tooth.
Sealants can protect teeth for five to ten years with proper care. During your routine checkups at Swanson Dental Group, we will examine your sealants and determine whether reapplication is needed to maintain protection.
Yes. Dental sealants are made from BPA-free materials that have been safely used in dentistry for decades on children and adults alike. They are an effective preventive treatment approved by the American Dental Association.
No. Sealants offer an added layer of protection against cavities, but good oral hygiene is still essential. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting Swanson Dental Group for regular professional cleanings remain the best defense against cavities.
Dental sealants are an affordable preventive treatment that costs much less than a dental filling. Many dental insurance plans cover sealants partially or fully up to a certain age. Our Reno dental office will help you check your insurance benefits and discuss payment options if needed.
At Swanson Dental Group, we believe an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Especially in dentistry, we take a proactive, preventive approach to avoid problems before they begin rather than waiting and fixing issues with more costly and invasive procedures. Dr. Swanson and our caring team use the same high-quality materials on our patients that we use on our own teeth. Our priority is the health and comfort of our patients and protecting smiles at every age.
