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The best way to avoid expensive dental procedures is to take measures to protect your teeth before problems arise. Dental sealants do a lot for protecting kids from tooth decay whose permanent teeth are growing in. Dental sealants prevent kids from suffering painful toothaches and reduce the need for dental procedures that make them nervous about returning to their dentist.
At Advance Dental Care Center, we want kids to keep their teeth strong and healthy. We also want to avoid putting them through any procedures that make them uncomfortable. That’s why we recommend getting dental sealants for your kids once their permanent molars come in.
What Are Dental Sealants?
The surfaces of teeth have edges and pits for chewing raw food. A dental sealant is a liquid plastic that hardens over the molar, creating a flat surface. Dental sealants make it impossible for food particles and bacteria to rest in the pits and grooves of the tooth surface.
What Is the Dental Sealant Procedure?
Putting on a dental sealant is a painless and fast procedure. We put sealants on children of all ages, usually without any issues. The following are the steps we take when putting a sealant on a tooth:
- Thoroughly cleaning and drying the tooth
- Adding an acidic compound to the tooth to make the surface rough
- Cleaning the acid from the tooth and drying it
- Applying the quick-drying liquid sealant
- Using a LED light to help the material harden on the tooth
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sealants
Not only are sealants great for protecting your child’s teeth, but they are also durable and long-lasting. Sealants can stay in a wearer’s mouth for up to nine years. In the first two years a child has them, they are effective at preventing 80% of cavities.
The downside of dental sealants is that they can fall out or wear away. If you want to avoid having your child’s sealants reapplied, keep them from eating too many acidic foods. Sealants will also wear out quickly if your child chews their food harder than necessary.
Can Adults Get Dental Sealants?
Adults who have a high risk of tooth decay can get dental sealants. Otherwise, we only recommend them for children and teenagers.
How Much Do Dental Sealants Cost?
The price for a dental sealant procedure varies on the type of sealant used and the number of teeth that need sealing. However, many insurance companies offer full coverage for dental sealants for children under the age of 18. Call our Arlington, VA, office to get a more specific idea of the cost of dental sealants.
Arlington Dental Sealants
Call Our Arlington, VA, Office Today
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.
