Sealants in Purcellville, VA
Learning More About Dental Sealants at South Fork Dentistry
Hi, my name is Alaina. I'm the dental hygienist at South Fork Dentistry. We've been getting a lot of questions recently about sealants and what they are. I'm going to answer some of those questions today.
What are dental sealants?
A dental sealant is like a clear coat for your tooth. It goes over some of those deep grooves that are hard to clean, keeping them smooth and preventing bacteria from entering.
Dental sealants act like a little jacket that sits over these deep areas of your tooth, helping to prevent food and bacteria from getting into them.
How are dental sealants applied to teeth?
Super easy. A chemical, similar to a little acid, is applied to the tooth to etch the surface. We then dry it off. Once the tooth is ready for the sealant, we apply it and cure it with a blue light, similar to when you get your nails done.
How soon can I brush my teeth after getting dental sealants?
Immediately. Once we cure it with the curing light, you're good to go.
How long do dental sealants protect teeth?
If you take really good care of them by brushing, flossing, and having regular dental visits, sealants can last up to 10 years, sometimes even longer.
Can dental sealants help with sensitive teeth?
Of course. Sometimes the sensitive areas can be covered with the sealant, preventing hot and cold things from touching them, which helps with sensitivity.
Can you get dental sealants if you have fillings or tooth decay?
If you already have a filling, it's too late to get a sealant. If you have decay, you should get a filling. The sealant is for a tooth that doesn't have any decay; it is just a preventative measure.
How much does it cost to get a dental sealant applied to my teeth?
Good question. Sealants are generally covered by insurance for kids under the age of 15. If you schedule an appointment, we would be happy to have the team up front help you get an estimate on the cost.
How can I schedule an appointment to have a dental sealant applied to my teeth?
Super easy. Just give us a call, come in for a screening, and we can schedule the sealants to be done.
If you live in or near Purcellville, VA, and are looking for dental care, contact us at (540) 778-9606 to set an appointment. Our staff would love to talk with you!
