Your back teeth, which are your premolars and molars are equipped with grooves and ridges that help you to chew your food and prepare it for digestion. However these same grooves and ridges provide hiding places for the plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist can apply a thin coating of plastic to those teeth to add a layer of protection to the enamel.
To apply a sealant, the dentist will clean and wash the teeth, and then apply an acidic solution to prepare the tooth for the sealant. The sealant is applied and may be cured with the use of a special light.
Sealants work best when they are applied when a child’s permanent back teeth erupt. That is also a time in the child’s life when they are at the greatest risk for cavities. However, older children or adults whose back teeth are in good condition, or who may be at a higher risk of cavities may be candidates for dental sealants.
Dental sealants only protect the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They do not protect the sides of those teeth, or the other teeth in your mouth. It is still important to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and brush before bed. You should also see your dentist every since months for a cleaning and an exam.
If your child’s permanent back teeth are coming in and you would like to protect them with dental sealants, Dr. John F. Lann at John F. Lann, DDS - Round Rock TX Dentist in Round Rock, Texas can help. Contact our office at 512-255-1025 today for an appointment.