Dental Sealants in Bethesda & Chevy Chase, MD

Tooth decay is common, easy to miss, and can lead to significant issues if left untreated. The best treatment for tooth decay is prevention, which is why Dr. Despina Markogiannakis of Smiles of Chevy Chase offers dental sealants. Read on or call 301-652-0656 to learn more about the many benefits of this simple, non-invasive measure against tooth decay from our skilled Chevy Chase general dentist.

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, specifically the permanent molars and premolars. These coatings create a protective shield against cavity-causing bacteria, effectively covering the small grooves and depressions where food particles can accumulate and lead to decay. The application of dental sealants provides an efficient way to prevent cavities and enhance the long-term health of teeth.

Dental sealants can be categorized primarily by the materials used in their composition, which typically fall into two main types: resin-based materials and glass ionomer materials.

Resin-based Sealants

Resin-based sealants are the most common material, made from a composite resin that creates a robust and durable barrier over the tooth surface. Resin-based sealants are cured using a light to harden them, providing a strong protective coating that can last up to a decade with proper care.

Glass Ionomer Sealants

Made from a mixture of acrylic and glass materials, glass ionomer sealants bond well to the tooth surface without requiring a curing light. They also release fluoride, which can provide additional protection against decay by strengthening the enamel. However, they may not be as durable as resin-based sealants and are often recommended for primary teeth in children.

Compomer Sealants

Compomer sealants are a hybrid of composite resin and glass ionomer materials. They offer the benefits of both materials, including aesthetics, fluoride release, and durability. Compomer sealants are commonly used in situations where aesthetics and long-term protection are of utmost importance.

Filled vs Unfilled Sealants

In addition to these primary types, there are variations such as filled and unfilled sealants. Filled sealants are thicker and more resistant to wear, while unfilled sealants can penetrate deeper into the grooves of teeth, offering smoother surfaces for easier cleaning.

The benefits of dental sealants are numerous:

• Effective Cavity Protection: A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control found that dental sealants prevent over 80 percent of cavities for two years.
• Quick and Non-Invasive: Getting dental sealants is a quick and painless process that only takes two to three minutes per tooth.
• Affordable: Dental sealants are a relatively affordable way to prevent costly damage to your smile.
• Lasting Protection: Dental sealants can last for two years or longer with proper oral hygiene and regular dental exams.
• Prevents Staining: Dental sealants help protect your teeth from staining, keeping your teeth whiter for longer.
• Combats Enamel Thinning: Dental sealants help prevent your enamel from thinning, which helps your teeth look healthier and stay stronger.
• Preserves Your Smiles’ Appearance: Dental sealants blend in with your natural teeth so they won’t impact the look of your smile.

Ideal candidates for dental sealants include anyone prone to cavities or oral diseases due to genetics or poor oral hygiene. Most often, sealants are recommended for young children and teenagers who may have difficulty maintaining regular brushing and flossing habits at home. However, adults may also benefit from sealants, provided they have healthy teeth free of cavities.

If you already have deep cavities, you may need tooth-colored fillings instead. Your Chevy Chase general dentist will go over your options with you during your initial consultation.

Initial Consultation

Your Chevy Chase general dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, take X-rays, review your medical history, and ask you about your smile goals. This information will help her determine if dental sealants are right for you.

Placing Dental Sealants

If you’ve been approved for dental sealants, our hygienist will clean and polish your teeth to remove plaque, bacteria, and tartar. Then, Dr. Markogiannakis will apply the sealant with a small brush and set it with a special light. After the application, she’ll ensure that the sealant has settled correctly.

The cost of dental sealants is often considered one of their most appealing aspects. On average, the price for applying a dental sealant typically ranges from $30 to $60 per tooth, although it can vary based on factors such as the specific dental practice and the type of sealant material used. Some estimates place the average cost at around $45 per tooth.

Insurance coverage usually includes dental sealants, particularly for children, as they are regarded as a preventive treatment. Many insurance plans cover them fully or partially, providing an excellent opportunity for families to invest in their children's dental health at a lower out-of-pocket cost. Furthermore, the investment in sealants can lead to significant savings in dental bills over time by preventing cavities and the need for more extensive and costly repairs.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants can last several years. To help your sealants last as long as possible you’ll need to follow a few instructions:

• Visit your dentist at least once every six months for touch-ups
• Brush twice a day, floss before bed, and rinse between meals
• Avoid putting pressure on your teeth by eating sticky and hard foods
• Don’t bite down on non-food items
• Limit acidic foods and drinks like coffee, citrus fruits, and alcohol
• Wear a nightguard if you experience bruxism (teeth grinding)

Does insurance cover dental sealants?

Sealants are a preventive procedure, and most insurance companies cover some or all of the costs for younger patients. Coverage for this treatment will vary, especially in older patients, so you should contact your provider beforehand to confirm which costs they can cover. Your dental office can also help determine your exact coverage by contacting your insurance and calculating out-of-pocket expenses.

Are dental sealants safe?

Dental sealants are a safe and highly effective way to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. The medical grade resin used for dental sealants makes them safe to have long-term. Due to their low costs and their ability to help prevent cavities, staining, and enamel thinning, most dentists recommend sealants to patients of all ages.

Can adults get dental sealants?

Adults can qualify for dental sealants, but sometimes their oral health needs more intensive care. Teeth that need to be treated for issues such as cavities, deep cracks, or infection should be taken care of before sealants are applied. Your dentist will give you your options for treatment during your initial consultation.

A relatively quick and easy procedure, dental sealants can help you and your family experience better dental visits and improved overall oral health. Dr. Markogiannkis can apply dental sealants for patients from Chevy Chase and surrounding areas such as Bethesda, Somerset, and Forest Hills, MD.

If you’d like to learn more about dental sealants, contact Smiles of Chevy Chase by dialing 301-652-0656. You can also request a consultation by filling out our contact form, and one of our friendly team members will get back to you shortly.