When your child’s molars and premolars start to emerge in adolescence, it’s quite common for these teeth to have deep pits, fissures, and contours on the biting surface. Sometimes these areas quite hard to clean. Plaque and food particles can get into the crevices of the molars and premolars, which can cause tooth decay. Applying dental sealants to the biting surface of these teeth is a common and effective way to protect them.
Dental sealant is a plastic-resin coating that Dr. James Feldman paints onto the biting surface of your child’s molars and premolars. A special ultraviolet light is used to harden and quickly cure the plastic resin. Even if plaque and food particles get stuck in the deep contours, the resin will prevent bacteria from directly attacking the enamel biting surface.
Having our dentist apply the sealants is very quick. Usually, they can paint them on the biting surface of your child’s back teeth after their routine dental checkup. The dental sealants are very durable, and will not be worn away by brushing your teeth. Most sealants last about two years.
If you have any questions about dental sealants for yourself or your child, please feel free to call us at 202-362-8412 to schedule an appointment.