The best way to avoid expensive dental procedures is to take proactive measures to protect your teeth before problems arise. Dental sealants are a highly effective solution for protecting children from tooth decay, especially as their permanent teeth come in. By preventing toothaches and reducing the need for more invasive dental procedures, sealants play a crucial role in maintaining your child’s oral health and reducing their anxiety about dental visits.
At Advance Dental Care Center, we are dedicated to helping children maintain strong and healthy teeth while minimizing discomfort and invasive procedures. That’s why we recommend dental sealants as a preventive measure once your child’s permanent molars have emerged.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. The surface of teeth features pits and grooves that can trap food particles and bacteria, making them vulnerable to decay. Sealants are a liquid plastic material that hardens into a solid layer, effectively sealing these grooves and preventing harmful substances from accumulating.
The Dental Sealant Procedure
Applying sealants is a quick and painless procedure. Here’s how we typically apply sealants at Advance Dental Care Center:
- Cleaning and Drying: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure the sealant adheres properly.
- Etching: An acidic compound is applied to the tooth surface to create a rough texture, enhancing the bond between the tooth and the sealant.
- Rinsing and Drying: The acid is rinsed off, and the tooth is dried again.
- Applying Sealant: The liquid sealant is applied to the tooth’s surface.
- Hardening: An LED light is used to quickly harden the sealant, ensuring a strong and durable protective layer.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sealants
Dental sealants offer several benefits:
- Durability: Sealants can last up to nine years, providing long-term protection.
- Effective Protection: In the first two years, sealants are effective at preventing 80% of cavities in the sealed teeth.
- Non-Invasive: The application process is quick, painless, and non-invasive.
However, there are some limitations:
- Wear and Tear: Sealants can wear away over time, particularly if your child consumes a lot of acidic foods or chews hard foods aggressively.
- Replacement Needed: Sealants may need to be reapplied if they become worn or chipped.
Can Adults Get Dental Sealants?
While dental sealants are primarily recommended for children and teenagers due to their high risk of cavities, adults who are at increased risk for tooth decay may also benefit from sealants. If you have concerns about tooth decay or the health of your teeth, consult with our dental professionals to determine if sealants are a suitable option for you.
How Much Do Dental Sealants Cost?
The cost of dental sealants can vary based on the type of sealant used and the number of teeth being sealed. However, many insurance plans provide full coverage for dental sealants for children under the age of 18. For a more specific estimate tailored to your needs, we encourage you to contact our Arlington, VA, office directly.
Book Your Arlington Dental Sealants Appointment Today!
If you’re considering dental sealants and searching for ‘dental sealants near me’ or ‘dental sealants for kids,’ look no further than our practice. Our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the process and help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. If your child eats a lot of sugary and acidic foods, dental sealants are a great way to save them from painful tooth decay. At Advance Dental Care Center, we make each child feel comfortable, relaxed, and safe before the procedure so they know they are not in for a painful experience. If you’re curious about dental sealants or have any concerns, call our Arlington, VA, office at (703) 415-0505 today.
