Molars and premolars in the rear of your mouth can sometimes have deep pits and contours on the biting surface. Teeth that have particularly deep contours can sometimes get food particles and plaque stuck in them. In some cases, even a quality toothbrush and abrasive toothpaste simply can’t get all of these food particles completely removed.
These teeth can start to build up plaque, which has the potential to lead to tooth decay. Unfortunately, when decay forms on these surfaces, it usually requires a large filling. Fillings, especially large ones, can fail later in life, requiring crowns and expensive root canal procedures. So it’s a good idea to take a proactive approach to preserving these teeth in adolescents and young adults.
Dental sealants are a plastic, resin-based compound that a dentist carefully paints onto the biting surface of your back teeth. When dried, this resin creates a thin protective layer that keeps food particles and plaque from direct contact with the enamel of your teeth. Once the sealants are cured, they are very durable and can last for several years.
If you have any questions about dental sealants for yourself or your child, please call us at 541-342-1072 to schedule an appointment.