What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are materials that are put in the grooves of your back teeth to help prevent cavities from forming.
How do dental sealants work?
Dental sealants work by sealing the grooves so that bacteria and food can't get stuck into the little grooves. The sealant creates a smooth, glossy surface, so debris slides right off.
What are the different types of dental sealants?
There's really just one material that's used, but it can be applied to your back teeth, which are the molars, or the more forward ones, which are the premolars. These are the two most common types.
How are dental sealants applied to teeth?
The tooth needs to be clean and dry. A material is used to make the tooth more receptive to the dental sealant. The sealant is then placed and hardened using a light, and that's it.
How soon can I brush my teeth after getting dental sealants?
You can brush your teeth right away because the light used during the application process makes the sealant hard immediately.
How long do dental sealants protect my teeth?
Dental sealants can protect your teeth for a few years. They do wear down over time due to chewing and the food you eat. They're not meant to last forever, but some patients have had them since their teenage years.
Can dental sealants help with sensitive teeth?
Sometimes they can help if you have sensitivity in the grooves of your teeth, but most of the time, they are used as a preventative measure to prevent cavities from forming.
Can you get dental sealants if you have fillings or tooth decay?
Unfortunately, no. If you have a filling, the filling acts as the sealant. You don't need a sealant around a filling, and if you have a cavity, then you need a filling, not a sealant.
How much does it cost to get a dental sealant applied to my teeth?
The cost varies and can only be determined after an examination in our office. We need to assess your needs and how many teeth require sealing. The best approach is to come in for an exam so we can provide a precise estimate.
How can I schedule an appointment to have dental sealant applied to my teeth?
The best way to schedule an appointment is to call our office. We can arrange an exam to determine your needs and schedule the procedure accordingly.
If you have any more questions, please feel free to call our office at (301) 812-4599.