Family Dentist in Falls Church Utilizes Dental Sealants to Protect Your Smile from Cavities
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing area of molars, premolars, and grooves of the teeth. Due to these ridges, these parts of the teeth are more difficult to clean, and thus 75% of decay usually happens there. Sealants help protect these grooves by creating a smooth, easy to clean surface. They can protect the teeth for many years, but need to be checked for wear at your twice-yearly appointments with your family dentist in Falls Church here at Peyser Dentistry.
What do sealants involve?
Sealants are easily applied by a hygienist or Dr. Peyser, and only take a few minutes per tooth to complete. First, the teeth that are to be sealed are cleaned and surrounded with cotton so that they stay dry. A special solution is applied to the enamel to help the sealant bond to the tooth more efficiently. The teeth are then rinsed and dried. The sealant material is carefully painted onto the surface of the tooth to cover and deep grooves. Depending on the type of material, the sealant will harden automatically or after we cure it with a special high-intensity light. A proper at-home regimen, healthy diet and twice-yearly visits to our office will help in extending the life of your sealants.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about dental sealants, give your Falls Church family dentist a call at (703) 893-3333 to schedule your consultation today.