Dental Sealants

Cavities don’t have to be inevitable. At Inova Dental Clinic in Sterling, VA, Dr. Jafari uses dental sealants to give your teeth — and your kids’ teeth — a head start against decay. It’s one of the simplest, most effective things we can do to protect a healthy smile for years to come.

Dental Sealants in Sterling, VA

A dental sealant is a thin, clear or tooth-colored resin coating that Dr. Jafari paints onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Those surfaces are covered in tiny grooves where food and bacteria hide — too narrow for a toothbrush bristle to reach. The sealant flows into those grooves and hardens, sealing them off before decay can start.

The procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth and is completely painless — no shots, no drilling. We often apply sealants during a regular cleaning and exam visit so you don’t need a separate trip.

Who benefits from sealants?

Children benefit most, which is why Dr. Jafari typically recommends sealants as soon as the first permanent molars come in — usually around age six, then again when the second molars arrive around age twelve. That said, sealants aren’t just for kids. Adults with deep grooves or a history of decay are excellent candidates too.

• Children getting their first or second permanent molars
• Teens and adults with decay-prone back teeth
• Patients who brush well but still develop pit-and-fissure cavities

How long do sealants last?

With normal use, sealants hold up for five to ten years. Dr. Jafari checks them at every cleaning and exam appointment and can reapply a sealant if one shows significant wear. They don’t replace brushing and flossing — but they do make both more effective by eliminating the deepest hiding spots for plaque.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is a dental sealant made of?

Sealants are made from a plastic resin material — the same type used in tooth-colored fillings. Dr. Jafari brushes it onto the tooth in liquid form, then hardens it in seconds with a curing light. The result is a smooth, durable layer that bonds directly to your enamel.

Does getting a sealant hurt?

No. There’s no drilling and no anesthesia needed. Dr. Jafari cleans and dries the tooth, applies a mild conditioning gel for a moment, rinses it off, and then paints on the sealant. Most patients barely notice it’s happening.

Can adults get dental sealants?

Yes. Sealants work on any tooth that hasn’t already developed a cavity in that groove. If you’ve got decay-free molars with deep pits, you’re a good candidate regardless of age. Dr. Jafari will take a look during your exam and let you know whether sealants make sense for you.

Will insurance cover dental sealants?

Many plans cover sealants for children under a certain age, and some cover adults as well. Inova Dental Clinic accepts Medicaid and most major insurance. Our front desk can verify your benefits before the appointment so there are no surprises.

How do I take care of my teeth after sealants are applied?

Keep brushing twice a day and flossing daily — sealants protect the chewing surfaces but not the spaces between teeth. Avoid chewing ice or hard candy, which can chip any dental work. Other than that, your routine doesn’t need to change at all.

Are sealants visible when I smile or talk?

No. Sealants are applied to the back molars, which aren’t visible when you smile. The material itself is clear or tooth-colored, so even on teeth that do show, they’re not noticeable.

Protecting a healthy tooth costs far less — in time, money, and discomfort — than treating a cavity later. Call us at (703) 433-1400 or schedule a visit and Dr. Jafari will let you know whether sealants are the right fit for you or your child.