Dental Sealants in Chesapeake, VA

What is a Tooth Sealant?

Teeth sealants are physical barriers that prevent pieces of food from becoming trapped in the pits and grooves in the chewing surfaces of molars. Sealants make the surface smooth, so it is far easier to keep teeth clean with regular brushing. Dental sealants help prevent cavities since food trapped in the chewing surface of teeth can rot and turn into bacteria, which causes cavities.

What is the Procedure for Having Tooth Sealants Applied?

The dental sealant procedure starts with having the teeth being treated cleaned and dried. Next, a mild acid solution is applied to the top of teeth in order to give the sealant a rough surface to attach to once it is applied. Next, the teeth are rinsed and dried again and the tooth sealant is painted onto the chewing surface of the molars. Depending on type of sealant used, it will dry on its own or the dentist will use an LED light to cure the sealant. Either way, it dries quickly.

What Does a Sealant Dental Procedure Cost?

We determine our dental sealants cost by which sealant our dentist uses and by how many teeth are being sealed. Contact our office for a consultation and our dentist will let you know our affordable fee for sealants. If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover dental sealants for children, as they are a cost-effective, preventative treatment.

What Are Dental Sealants for Adults?

Adult dental sealants are the same as dental sealants for kids, meaning they create a physical barrier against decay-causing plaque. Some adults have a higher risk factor for cavities because of heredity reasons, certain medications or receding gums. We would recommend sealants in cases such as these. Contact our office to see if you are a good candidate for dental sealants in Chesapeake.

Is it a Good Idea for Children to Get Dental Sealants?

Yes, getting your child’s molars treated with a sealant will reduce the number of cavities that they get by about 50 percent. Parents typically bring their children in when their first adult molars emerge and then bring the child back when his or her second set of adult molars emerges. In rare cases, our dentist will suggest sealants for your child’s baby teeth if your child is at risk for cavities.

How Safe Are Dental Sealants for Kids?

Parents often ask us if the material in dental sealants is safe for their children since the sealant remains in their child’s mouth for years. We reassure them that the American Dental Association has proven that dental sealants are safe for children. If you have any remaining uncertainty, our dentist will help you decide the best option for your child. Call us today to arrange a consultation.