Dental Sealants in Hartselle & Priceville, AL
Prevent Cavities Before They Start with Protective Sealants
Preventing cavities before they start is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your oral health — especially for children. At Sittason Family Dentistry, we offer Dental Sealants as a fast, painless, and highly effective way to reduce the risk of tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas.
Whether you’re a parent looking to protect your child’s molars or an adult patient with cavity-prone teeth, dental sealants offer a valuable layer of defense.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria, making them more vulnerable to decay — even with regular brushing.
Once applied, the sealant forms a smooth surface that keeps plaque, food debris, and acid from settling into those tiny pits. The process is quick, non-invasive, and requires no drilling or numbing.
We commonly recommend sealants for:
- Children and teens with newly erupted permanent molars
- Adults who are prone to cavities
- Patients with deep grooves in their enamel
- Individuals with a history of dental decay
How the Sealant Process Works
Getting a dental sealant is a straightforward process that usually takes just a few minutes per tooth. Here’s what to expect:
- Cleaning: We start by thoroughly cleaning and drying the tooth.
- Preparation: A special solution is applied to help the sealant bond properly.
- Application: The sealant material is painted onto the chewing surface.
- Curing: A curing light hardens the sealant, securing it in place.
Once complete, the sealant acts as a barrier, shielding the enamel from bacteria and acids that can cause cavities. Sealants are especially effective when combined with routine dental cleanings and good oral hygiene habits.
Why Sealants Are Ideal for Children
Children are especially vulnerable to tooth decay as their brushing techniques develop and their diet includes more cavity-causing snacks. Applying sealants to permanent molars soon after they erupt can:
- Reduce cavity risk by up to 80%
- Protect teeth during the most cavity-prone years (ages 6–14)
- Minimize the need for fillings or more complex treatment later
- Support long-term oral health as part of a preventive care plan
Our Children’s Dentistry services include sealants as a core part of cavity prevention for growing smiles.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care. During routine checkups, we’ll evaluate the condition of your sealants and recommend reapplication if needed.
To maximize their lifespan, we also advise:
- Maintaining regular checkups and cleanings
- Avoiding biting on hard objects like ice or pens
- Practicing good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing
Even if a sealant wears down over time, reapplying it is quick and affordable — and much easier than treating a cavity.
Additional Cavity Prevention Services
While sealants are highly effective, they work best as part of a broader preventive strategy. At Sittason Family Dentistry, we combine sealants with other services to protect your teeth and keep your smile healthy:
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
- Digital X-rays to catch decay early
- Oral hygiene education for both children and adults
- Dental fillings to restore areas already affected by decay
We work with you to build a personalized plan that supports long-term prevention, not just short-term fixes.
Why Patients Choose Sittason Family Dentistry
As a trusted family practice serving Hartselle and Priceville, we focus on lasting relationships and preventive care. Patients appreciate our:
- Generational family leadership, including Dr. David, Dr. Payton, and Dr. Blair Sittason
- Friendly, patient-centered approach to treatment
- Advanced technology like intra-oral cameras and digital imaging
- Convenient locations and flexible payment options
Whether you’re new to the area or have been part of our practice for years, we’re here to help you and your family maintain strong, cavity-free smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
At what age should children get sealants?
Sealants are typically applied when permanent molars erupt — around age 6 for the first set, and again around age 12 for the second set.
Do dental sealants hurt?
No. Applying sealants is completely painless and does not require numbing or drilling.
Are sealants covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover dental sealants for children under 18 as a preventive service. We can check your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Yes. Adults who are prone to decay or have deep grooves in their molars can benefit from sealants, especially when combined with fluoride and regular cleanings.
How do sealants compare to fillings?
Sealants prevent decay before it starts, while fillings repair existing cavities. Sealants are non-invasive and typically more cost-effective than restorative treatments.
Protect Your Smile with Dental Sealants
Prevent cavities before they start — schedule your visit for Dental Sealants at Sittason Family Dentistry today. Whether you're booking for your child or yourself, our team is here to help you enjoy a healthier, longer-lasting smile. We proudly serve patients from Decatur, Hartselle, Falkville, Somerville, and the surrounding areas.
Find the most convenient office for your needs:
Hartselle Office
- Address: 819 Highway 31 NW, Hartselle, AL 35640
- Phone: (256) 773-2233
- Email: contact@sittasondental.com
- Contact our Hartselle location.
Decatur / Priceville Office
- Address: 2941 Point Mallard Pkwy SE, Decatur, AL 35603
- Phone: (256) 274-5750
- Email: priceville@sittasondental.com
- Contact our Decatur location.