Dental Sealants in Chesapeake, VA

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants comprised of a liquid plastic that is painted on the chewing surface of molars, where there are fissures and pits. Since the chewing surface of molars is not smooth, it is difficult to keep them clean. Sealants make the surface smooth, making it difficult for cavity-causing bacteria to hide from a toothbrush. Sealants are generally clear or white so they are invisible.

How Are Dental Sealants Placed on Teeth?

The dental sealant procedure is quick and painless. Even small children generally don’t have a problem with it. The tooth sealant steps include:

1. Each tooth being sealed is thoroughly cleaned and dried.
2. The dentist or hygienist uses a mild acid etching agent to make the tooth’s chewing surface rough, so the sealant adheres better.
3. The teeth are cleaned to get the acid off and then dried once again.
4. The dentist or hygienist paints the fast drying sealant on.
5. Certain sealant dental materials need a LED light or visible light to harden the sealant.

We explain to your child that while the material looks like a filling, it isn’t and there won’t be any drilling.

What Do Dental Sealants Cost?

When we quote the dental sealant fee to our patients, the cost is contingent on which sealant is used and how many teeth are being sealed. Please contact our office to discover our affordable fees for dental sealants in Chesapeake. When you call, be sure to let us know if you have dental insurance as many plans will pay for dental sealants for children up to age 18.

Why Do Adults Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants for adults are practical when an individual has a high risk for dental decay, otherwise, dentists usually only recommend dental sealants for children.

Should My Child Have Dental Sealants?

All children can benefit from dental sealants. Generally, you should ask about dental sealants when your child gets his or her permanent first molars and then again when their second molars erupt. Occasionally, our dentist may recommend sealants for a child’s baby teeth if our dentist feels that decay may become an issue.

Can Dental Sealants Harm My Child?

Parents often ask us if dental sealants are in any way harmful. We tell them no, and point to extensive research by the American Dental Association (ADA) and other professional organizations that did not find anything harmful in sealants.

If you want to know more about sealants and their safety, call our office to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists. He or she will present you with the facts and you can decide for yourself if you believe that sealants are right for your child.