As they age your child’s 20 baby teeth are replaced with their 32 adult teeth. It’s quite common for the biting surface of molars and premolars to have deep contours, fissures and pits in the enamel.
Sometimes these can be a challenge to clean with brushing alone. If residual food particles and plaque are imbedded in these areas, it increases the likelihood of tooth decay setting in. Tooth decay that forms on these biting surface often require large fillings, that could become problematic later on in their life.
If your child has deeply pitted or contoured teeth, your dentist might recommend dental sealants. Your dentist can usually apply the sealants after your child’s regular dental checkup.
The dental sealants are made from a durable plastic-resin compound that is painted onto the biting surfaces of your child’s molars and premolars. A special ultraviolet light is used to harden the resin. If plaque and food particles get stuck in the deep contours, the resin will prevent bacteria from directly attacking the enamel biting surface.
With proper care they will be very durable and last for several years.
If you have any questions about dental sealants for yourself or your child, please call us at 734-222-0055 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping your child protect their teeth for the long term!