Sealants to deter tooth decay
Who can get dental sealants?
Usually anyone ages 6 and up.
What is a dental sealant?
It is a thin layer of protective material, placed on a healthy tooth to help prevent decay in deep grooves and pits of natural tooth structure by creating an impenetrable physical barrier for small food particles and cavity-causing bacteria, making them highly effective in preventing tooth surface decay. Sealants can last up to ten years.
How are dental sealants applied?
First, the tooth must be cleaned with a special paste. Then the tooth must be kept dry while a special etching gel is applied. This gel prepares the surface to help the sealant stick. The gel is rinsed off and the tooth is dried again. The white sealant material is applied in a thin layer into the deep grooves on the biting surface. Then a bright curing light is used to harden the dental sealant, setting it in place. The hygienist checks the sealants to be sure they adhere to the tooth surface, sealing out plaque and bacteria which cause decay.
Will insurance cover sealants?
Most insurance companies do pay a varied percentage of the fee for a sealant. There are often limitations that vary from one plan to another such as age limits, limits on specific teeth covered, and sometimes replacement limitations. The good news is that more insurance companies are beginning to recognize this technique as a valuable preventive measure that will help reduce future dental costs.
Southlake Office
261 E. Southlake Blvd., Ste. 100
Southlake, TX 76092
Main: 817.328.2400
(Toll Free) 877.223.6760
Arlington Office
1810 South Bowen Rd., Ste. A
Arlington, TX 76013
Main: 817.274.8667
(Toll Free) 877.223.6760
email us: info@docdds.com