Dental Sealants in Suffolk, VA

What are Dental Tooth Sealants?

Dental sealants are a thin plastic film applied to your teeth that stop bacterial from reaching the tooth enamel, causing decay. Dentists often seal permanent premolars and molars because the natural fissures and pits are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush. The sealant is either clear or white; it is not visible once applied.

What is the Dental Sealant Procedure?

Having dental sealants applied is painless. First, one of our dentists cleans each tooth being treated meticulously, drying each tooth and then applying a solution to make the surface rough so the sealant bonds to the tooth. After a rinse and another drying, our dentist applies the sealant. With some dental sealants, a light cures the sealant; otherwise, you have to wait a few minutes for it to dry. Once the dentist says that the sealant is hard, you can chew normally.

Sealants can last for five to 10 years. When you come in for a routine checkup, one of our dentists will make sure the sealant is holding up well.

What’s the Typical Price for Dental Sealants?

Your dental sealants cost relies on which type of sealant our dentist decides to use and the number of teeth being sealed. Many dental insurance plans will cover this preventative treatment. Sealants are a long-term investment in your child’s dental health. They can last up to 10 years with regular checkups. To learn what it will cost for dental sealants in Suffolk, call our office for a consultation.

Are Dental Sealants for Adults Common?

Adults without fillings or cavities in their molars can benefit from dental sealants, especially adults who are predisposed to decay. Our dentists skillfully perform tooth sealant treatments for children and adults.

How Early Should Dental Sealants Be Applied to a Child’s Teeth?

Our dentists usually recommend that you have sealants applied on your child’s first molars when they erupt to seal out decay before it gains a foothold. Around age 12, your child’s second molars will erupt, and we recommend that you have them sealed quickly as well unless your child has meticulous oral hygiene habits and avoids sugary foods and drinks.

While molars are prime candidates for sealants, any tooth with deep, hard to clean grooves or irregularities can benefit from the treatment if there is no decay or fillings already in the tooth.

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Dental sealants are not only safe, they are recommended by the American Dental Association. There is no scientific evidence of a tooth sealant causing harm to children. Rather, there is evidence that sealant dental treatment is effective against decay when applied as soon as possible after your child’s permanent molars erupt.

If you’re interested in the protection provided by dental sealants, call our office to arrange a consultation.