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What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a fast, effective, and non-invasive way to protect your teeth—especially your molars—from cavities and decay. At Straight River Family Dental, we recommend sealants as a preventive treatment for both children and adults who are more prone to tooth decay. These thin coatings are applied directly onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, creating a protective barrier that keeps food particles and bacteria from settling into the deep grooves of the enamel.
This simple procedure can reduce the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80%, making it a valuable investment in your long-term oral health.
Who Should Consider Dental Sealants?
Sealants are particularly effective for:
- Children and teens: Especially around ages 6 to 14, when permanent molars and premolars come in.
- Adults: With deep grooves or a history of frequent cavities.
- Patients with difficulty maintaining oral hygiene due to orthodontic appliances or limited dexterity.
During your routine dental cleaning, our team will evaluate if you're a good candidate for sealants.
How the Sealant Process Works
Getting dental sealants at our Owatonna practice is a quick, painless process:
- Cleaning: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque or food debris.
- Preparation: A special solution is applied to the tooth to help the sealant bond.
- Application: The sealant is painted onto the enamel and then hardened with a curing light.
- Evaluation: We check your bite and polish the area if needed.
The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth and requires no anesthesia.
Why Choose Straight River Family Dental for Sealants?
At Straight River Family Dental, your preventive care is our priority. Our team—including Dr. Kurt Erickson, Dr. Seth Huiras, and Dr. Zach Lindquist—brings a patient-first approach backed by advanced technology and years of clinical experience. We focus on early intervention through services like children's dentistry and dental X-rays to detect issues before they become serious.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Thorough exams with digital diagnostics
- Modern sealant materials for long-lasting protection
- Friendly, family-focused care in a comfortable environment
- Convenient location in Owatonna, MN with flexible weekday hours
More Preventive & General Dental Services
Sealants are just one part of our broader general dentistry offerings. We also provide:
Our goal is to keep your entire family’s smiles strong, healthy, and cavity-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
How long do sealants last?
Dental sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care. During your routine visits, we’ll monitor them and reapply if needed.
Do sealants hurt?
Not at all. The procedure is quick and non-invasive—no drills or needles involved.
Are sealants only for kids?
While commonly used in children, adults with deep grooves or frequent decay can benefit as well.
Will my insurance cover dental sealants?
Many insurance plans cover sealants for children under a certain age. Our front desk team can verify your coverage before your appointment.
Protect Your Smile with Dental Sealants in Owatonna
Prevent cavities before they start. Whether you're a parent looking to protect your child’s smile or an adult exploring preventive options, dental sealants are a smart and affordable solution.
Contact Straight River Family Dental to schedule your appointment today.
- Address: 170 Landmark Dr. NE, Ste. A, Owatonna, MN 55060
- Phone: (507) 451-3090
- Request an Appointment