Your child will most likely lose his or her 20 primary teeth to make room for their permanent teeth by early to the middle of adolescence. When their permanent molars and premolars emerge, they can sometimes have deep pits, fissures and contours that might be difficult to regularly clean. If plaque and residual food particles get stuck in these deeper contours, it will make them much more likely to develop tooth decay.
Cavities that form on the biting surface of these back teeth are often large and require large fillings that could be problematic later on in life. If Dr. Esperanza A. Rodriguez notices deep pits or stuck on plaque and food particles on premolars, she might recommend having dental sealants applied to the biting surface.
Dental sealants a durable plastic-resin that Dr. Esperanza A. Rodriguez paints onto the biting surface of your son or daughter’s molars and premolars. A special ultraviolet light is used to harden the resin. Even if plaque and food particles get stuck on the biting surface, the dental sealants will keep them from direct access to the tooth enamel.
Dr. Esperanza A. Rodriguez can usually apply the sealants immediately after their regular dental checkup. The dental sealants are very durable and can help to protect the biting surface for two years or more.
If you have any questions about dental sealants for your child, please call Dr. Esperanza A. Rodriguez at 718-364-7791 to schedule an appointment.