Dental Sealants in Virginia Beach, VA

What Do Dental Sealants Do?

Dental sealants keep cavities at bay. Dental sealants are liquid plastic coatings for molars that make the chewing surface smooth, preventing bacteria that causes cavities from accumulating in the grooves and pits. Most cavities occur in the molars; toothbrushes don’t reach into the fissures. Sealants significantly reduce cavities, which makes children happy.

What is the Sealant Application Process?

The application process is fast and painless. First, the teeth getting the sealant treatment are cleaned and dried. The dentist or hygienist will use a mild acid gel on the chewing surfaces of the teeth to make them slightly abrasive. This helps the sealant to adhere securely. After the sealant is painted on, you wait for it to harden. Some sealants use a curing lamp to harden the material.

The treatment takes less time that having a cavity filled, and with sealants, there are no needles and no drilling.

Dental sealants should offer protection for up to 10 years with regular checkups to detect chips or wear.

What Do Dental Sealants Cost with Dental Insurance?

If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover the dental sealant procedure, especially if it is a child under age 18 receiving the treatment. Sealants are a cost-effective preventative measure. Treating one tooth with a sealant typically costs about half of what it costs to fill a cavity.

Even if you do not have coverage, our fees are affordable. We base the cost on which sealant our dentist uses and how many teeth receive the treatment. While there are different types of sealant materials, none is more effective than another. Contact our office to learn how much it will cost for dental sealants in Virginia Beach.

Do Adults Ever Get Dental Sealants?

Our dentists suggest dental sealants for adults when their patient has healthy teeth without decay, but they are at risk for cavities because they take a medication that makes their mouth dry or because of genetics. A sealant dental treatment is just as beneficial for adults as it is for children.

How Soon Would My Child Need a Tooth Sealant Treatment?

As soon as your child has their permanent molars, he or she could benefit from a tooth sealant treatment, which can reduce cavities by up to 50 percent. Our dentist may recommend sealants for your child’s baby teeth if they are at increased risk for decay.

Can I Trust Dental Sealants?

Research by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research and the American Dental Association have shown that dental sealants are safe and effective. The Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration have completed their own analyses as well. There is no scientific evidence of harm, however, there is plenty of evidence regarding sealant’s benefits.

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment. We look forward to serving you and addressing all of your concerns regarding dental sealants.