Blog Post

Dental Sealants: A Complete Guide

Family Dentistry & Implant Center • May 16, 2022

Dental sealants from a dentist in Ashburn, VA, are an easy way to help to prevent cavities. Here's everything you need to know about this dental care option.

dental sealants, Dentist Ashburn VA

Did you know that dental sealants have been around since the 1960s? Dentists use this safe and effective preventative treatment for patients of all ages. Sealants are especially helpful for children who are prone to getting cavities. 



So what are dental sealants? This dentist in Ashburn, VA, has all the answers about who is a candidate, cost factors, and more. 

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants contain plastic, ceramic, or a mix of the two materials. Dentists coat the grooves and recesses of molars with sealants. 


Most dentists work with sealants that have biocompatible materials. These materials are safe for children and do not leak materials into saliva.



Sealants are a form of preventative dentistry. At Simply Smiles, we recommend preventative treatments as a means of protecting your oral health by preventing cavities and other dental problems. In addition to sealants, our office also offers night guards that prevent teeth from grinding at night. 

Am I a Candidate for Sealants?

Anyone is a great candidate for dental sealants. We recommend sealants for children and teens. Children are especially prone to cavities, particularly if they consume sugary foods and drinks and don't brush regularly.


Anyone with a history of cavities can be a candidate for sealants. Genetics, wear, age, and other factors can leave people with varying levels of enamel. Based on your family history and number of past cavities, you may benefit from this affordable and safe preventive treatment.



Tobacco use, poor oral hygiene habits, and acid reflux disorders are also risk factors for cavities. If you have questions about getting sealants, Dr. Sabharwal or a member of our team will be glad to discuss your candidacy for this treatment option. Remember, anyone can benefit from cavity prevention. 

Are Sealants Affordable?

Dental sealants are affordable. In fact, many dental insurance plans cover part or all of these preventative treatments. The procedure is covered because sealants are known to prevent costly restorative treatments.



A member of our team will be glad to give you an estimate of the cost of placing sealants. If you have questions about cost factors related to any of our treatments, don't hesitate to ask. We are here to help.

How Are Sealants Placed?

Dental sealants are one of many dental services that are performed at our office. First, Dr. Sabharwal will clean the surface of your molars. This ensures that the sealants maintain a strong bond with the surface of your teeth.


Then, Dr. Sabharwal applies the sealants, which come in liquid form. Once the liquid has coated the surface of your teeth, he will use a special blue light to harden the liquid.



Placing dental sealants is quick, easy, and completely painless. 

What Are Some Other Ways to Prevent Cavities?

Sealants will not always prevent cavities. The treatment should be used in conjunction with other measures like regular brushing, flossing, visits to the dentist, and a diet that minimizes excess sugar.



Having sealants placed does not mean that you or your child do not have to brush regularly. When used in conjunction with other proven methods of preventing cavities, sealants can be highly effective.

How Effective Are Sealants at Preventing Cavities?

Dental cavities are incredibly effective at preventing cavities. The CDC notes that sealants prevent around 80% of cavities in children. Even after a few years, sealants can prevent half of cavities.


Because sealants place a physical barrier between the outside environment and enamel, there is literally no means for decay to form. Sealants are placed in the crevices of molars because those areas are where the majority of cavities form. The deep grooves on the tops of molars are more likely to form tartar which provides a home for bacteria that cause tooth decay. 

What to Expect After Your Sealants Are Placed

Once your sealants are placed, Dr. Sabharwal will check to ensure that your sealants do not interfere with your bite. Any minor adjustments can be made at that point. Once your dentist is sure that the sealants are placed in the right spot, your treatment will be complete.


Dental sealants usually last several years or up to a decade on average. Diet, eating habits, and other factors can affect how long sealants last. During your checkups, your dentists will examine your sealants to ensure that they are still coating the areas they need to. 



At some point, your dentist will need to remove or replace your sealants. Your dentist will do this using the same procedure that placed your sealants the first time. 

Can I Eat Normally with Sealants?

One of the benefits of dental sealants is that the coatings do not interfere with chewing and biting. Once the material has hardened, it is incredibly resilient.


There is no need for you to change your diet and eating habits. If you grind your teeth at night or regularly chew on very hard foods, it is possible that you can wear your sealants down prematurely. 

Schedule Your Appointment with Your Dentist in Ashburn, VA, Today!

Dental sealants are a safe and effective preventative treatment. We recommend that children between the ages of 6 and 14 have sealants placed. We place sealants on adults as well. 


Are you looking for one location that can handle family dentistry and more? At Simply Smiles, our esteemed dentist provides comprehensive dental care plus full mouth restoration using dental implants. 



No matter what your dental needs are, we're here to help. Contact our dentist in Ashburn, VA, online today to schedule your next consultation

By Family Dental & Implant Center March 28, 2025
National Institutes of Health reports that around 50% of kids aged 7 to 11 are afraid of going to the dentist. A child's smile is a reflection of their overall health, making children's dental care an essential part of their early development. Establishing solid oral habits at a young age sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Parents play a crucial role in teaching kids how to care for their teeth and ensuring they feel comfortable with dental visits. From proper brushing techniques to choosing a supportive dentist, every step matters. Below, we'll explore key pediatric dental advice that can help you maintain your child's oral health without issue. Creating a Daily Brushing Routine Brushing every morning and night is one of the most important habits kids can develop. Parents should start early by guiding their children through the process and ensuring consistency. A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste help protect the enamel and remove plaque effectively. Keeping the experience fun and engaging encourages kids to brush without resistance. Making brushing a positive experience builds a strong foundation for healthy teeth for kids. Ways to make brushing enjoyable include: Letting kids pick their own toothbrush with bright colors or fun designs Using a two-minute timer or a song to make brushing feel like a game Brushing together as a family to create a shared routine Offering small rewards for consistent brushing habits Teaching kids to use gentle circular motions for effective cleaning Making oral care fun helps children develop habits that last a lifetime. Choosing the Right Toothpaste and Tools One of the most important kids' oral care tips is choosing the right products. A mild-flavored fluoride toothpaste is ideal for cavity prevention without overwhelming sensitive taste buds. Soft-bristled brushes are gentle on young gums while effectively cleaning teeth. Some children may prefer electric toothbrushes, which can make brushing easier and more enjoyable. Replacing toothbrushes every few months ensures they remain effective at keeping teeth clean. The Importance of Flossing Early Flossing is just as important as brushing, but many kids resist it at first. Parents should introduce flossing as soon as teeth begin touching, helping to remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Using child-friendly floss picks makes the process simpler and more comfortable. Developing this habit early helps prevent gum disease and cavities. Encouraging flossing in a fun way ensures kids stick with it. Fun ways to introduce flossing: Use colorful flossers designed for small hands Turn flossing into a game where kids "find hidden food" between their teeth Let kids practice flossing on their dolls or stuffed animals Show them how to floss properly by demonstrating on yourself When flossing feels like a normal part of their routine, kids will be more likely to do it consistently. Encouraging Healthy Eating for Strong Teeth Diet has a major impact on dental hygiene for children . Crunchy fruits and vegetables help clean teeth naturally and keep gums healthy. Dairy products provide essential calcium for strong enamel. Sugary snacks and drinks should be limited to prevent cavities . Drinking water instead of juice rinses away food particles and helps maintain hydration. Teaching kids the effects of their meal choices empowers them to protect their teeth. Building Confidence at the Dentist A child's experience at the dentist shapes their attitude toward oral care. Parents should speak positively about dental visits and avoid using words that may cause fear. A child-friendly dental practice can make checkups feel comfortable and inviting. Scheduling visits when kids are well-rested and relaxed helps prevent anxiety. Allowing children to ask questions and participate in their care makes them feel more at ease. Positive first experiences encourage lifelong confidence in dental care. Making Dental Care a Fun Experience Turning oral hygiene into an exciting activity encourages consistency. Educational videos and interactive apps can teach proper brushing and flossing in an entertaining way. A reward system helps reinforce positive habits without making dental care feel like a chore. Letting kids take ownership of their routine gives them a sense of independence. Fun and engaging approaches create habits that stick. Ways to make dental care more enjoyable: Using a toothbrush that lights up or plays music Creating a bedtime story that involves brushing and flossing Letting kids "teach" their stuffed animals how to brush Setting up a reward system for consistency When oral care feels like playtime, kids are more likely to maintain favorable habits. Finding the Right Children's Dentist Choosing a dentist for your child is about more than just finding someone with experience. A welcoming environment and a gentle approach can make all the difference in how a child feels about dental visits. A child-friendly dental practice should prioritize comfort, offering a warm atmosphere that helps ease anxiety . The right dentist takes time to explain procedures in a way kids understand, helping them feel safe and involved in their care. A reliable children's dentist also focuses on preventive care, teaching kids healthy habits that will protect their teeth for years to come. They should provide guidance on: Brushing Flossing Diet choices A practice that offers kid-friendly amenities, like colorful décor or small rewards after checkups, can make visits more enjoyable. Parents should also look for a dentist with flexible scheduling, making it easier to book appointments that fit their routine. Reading reviews (while avoiding fake ones ) and getting recommendations from other parents can provide insight into the best options in the area. Building a positive relationship with a dental provider helps children feel confident about their oral care, reducing anxiety and ensuring they grow up with strong, healthy teeth. Never Neglect Children's Dental Care Prioritizing children's dental care helps ensure your kids grow up with strong, healthy teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and smart dietary choices contribute to lifelong oral health. Simply Smiles in Ashburn offers expert family and implant dentistry with a compassionate touch. From preventive care to advanced treatments like dental implants and clear aligners, we provide personalized solutions for every patient.  New patients are always welcome, and we accept all PPO insurance. Schedule an appointment today to learn more!
By Family Dental & Implant Center March 28, 2025
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A few essential tools make oral care easier: Electric toothbrushes for better plaque removal Water flossers to clean between teeth without irritation Fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel and reduce decay risk Using the right products simplifies oral hygiene. Recognizing the Signs of Gum Disease Ignoring minor gum discomfort can lead to more significant issues. Bleeding gums and sensitivity are common early signs of infection. Left untreated, gum disease may result in tooth loss and other complications. Elderly dental health advice often emphasizes preventative dental care to stop gum problems before they worsen. Seeing a dentist regularly helps detect concerns early and prevent serious damage. How Dry Mouth Affects Senior Oral Health Many seniors experience dry mouth due to aging or side effects from medication. Saliva plays a vital role in washing away bacteria and neutralizing acids. When moisture levels drop, teeth become more vulnerable to decay. Using oral rinses designed for dry mouth and staying hydrated can help. Maintaining teeth as you age requires consistent hydration and proper oral care. To combat dry mouth, consider these solutions: Drink water throughout the day to maintain moisture Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes that worsen dryness These Simple adjustments can improve oral comfort. The Importance of Routine Dental Checkups Regular visits to a dentist provide more than just clean teeth. Professional exams detect issues early and prevent more significant problems . The importance of dental check-ups cannot be overstated, as they help maintain strong teeth and a healthy smile. While keeping up with appointments prevents avoidable dental issues. Choosing the Right Diet for Strong Teeth The food you eat affects more than your body, as it also impacts your oral health. For example, calcium-rich foods strengthen teeth. However, too much sugar increases the risk of cavities . A balanced diet supports long-term dental health. Making smart food choices keeps teeth in better shape. Incorporate these foods into your diet: Dairy products like cheese and yogurt for stronger enamel Leafy greens that provide essential vitamins and minerals Crunchy fruits and vegetables that naturally clean teeth Proper nutrition leads to better oral health. Proper Denture Care for Lasting Comfort Seniors who wear dentures need to maintain them properly for comfort and function. Cleaning dentures daily prevents irritation and infections. Soaking them overnight helps retain their shape and fit, and using non-abrasive cleansers protects the material from wear and tear. Affordable denture options are available to replace missing teeth and restore a natural smile. Managing Tooth Sensitivity in Older Adults Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. Worn enamel exposes the underlying layers of teeth, leading to pain with hot or cold foods. Specialized toothpaste helps reduce sensitivity over time. Avoiding acidic foods can also prevent further enamel loss. If the problem persists, a dentist can offer solutions. Try these tips for managing sensitivity: Using toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth Avoiding extremely hot or cold drinks Limiting acidic foods that weaken enamel Taking these steps makes eating and drinking more comfortable. Understanding the Link Between Oral and Overall Health Dental health affects more than just your teeth. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Infections in the mouth may spread to other areas of the body, increasing health risks. Oral hygiene for seniors is crucial for keeping overall health in check. A clean, healthy mouth supports better well-being. Finding a Trusted Dentist for Senior Care Not all dentists specialize in senior care . Finding a provider experienced in preventative dental care for older adults makes a substantial difference. Quality dental services in Ashburn can help seniors maintain their oral health while addressing age-related concerns. A reputable dentist will ensure long-term dental health with personalized treatment. Experience in Senior Dental Care A dentist with experience in senior care understands the unique challenges that aging patients face. Issues like dry mouth and increased sensitivity require specialized attention. An experienced provider can recommend treatments tailored to maintaining oral health as you age. Choosing a dentist with a history of working with seniors ensures a higher level of care. Comprehensive Services for Aging Patients Seniors often need a variety of dental services beyond routine cleanings . Dentists who offer restorative options like dentures and gum treatments provide better long-term care. 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