Dental Sealants in Bethesda & Chevy Chase, MD

Dental sealants are a simple and effective way to guard your teeth against tooth decay and cavities. Sealants are thin, pliable plastic materials that can be applied to the tops of the back teeth (premolars and molars). After they are positioned, dental sealants block out bacteria, food particles, plaque, and tartar to prevent an array of dental problems, like cavities. Sealants can last years if they are cared for properly with an effective home oral hygiene routine. Not only can sealants improve your oral hygiene and prevent cavities, but they can also save money during future dental visits at Smiles of Chevy Chase. Talk to experienced dentist Dr. Despina Markogiannakis during your appointment at our Chevy Chase, MD office to decide if sealants could be a good alternative for you or your child.

Ideal candidates for the receipt of dental sealants would be anyone who is prone to getting cavities or oral diseases due to genetics or poor oral hygiene. Most often, sealants are recommended for young children and teenagers who may have a more difficult time maintaining regular teeth brushing habits at home. Sealant application is a fast, simple treatment that typically requires no anesthesia or sedation, which makes it an easy procedure for patients of any age.

During your consultation, Dr. Markogiannakis will first need to assess your teeth to determine if sealants are the right treatment for you. Prior to the actual application, your teeth will be cleaned and polished to remove plaque, bacteria, and tartar. Then Dr. Marko will apply the sealant with a small brush and set it with a special light. After the application, Dr. Marko will ensure that the sealant has settled correctly.

Following the procedure, you should be able to return to your normal routine. It is important that you follow a consistent oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, using mouthwash, and flossing. You should also avoid putting pressure on your teeth or eating sticky foods. With proper care, sealants can be long-lasting. During your annual exam at Smiles of Chevy Chase, Dr. Marko will determine if your sealants need to be reapplied.

Sealants are a preventive procedure, and most insurance companies cover some or all of the cost for younger patients. Coverage will vary, especially in older patients, so our office will determine your exact coverage by contacting your insurance and then calculating your out-of-pocket costs. Smiles of Chevy Chase accepts many different payment methods, and we can help you with acquiring medical financing if needed.

You or your family can benefit from dental sealants to effectively protect your teeth from bacteria. They are a great way to prevent future dental procedures, like fillings for cavities. A relatively quick and easy procedure, sealants can help you and your family experience better dental visits and improved overall oral health. If you would like to learn more about dental sealants, contact our Chevy Chase, MD office to book a consultation with experienced dentist Dr. Markogiannakis.