When your primary teeth are replaced by your 32 adult teeth, it’s quite common to have deep pits and fissures on the occlusal surfaces of the back teeth. These deeply textured areas on the biting surfaces can trap bacteria and food particles, promoting large cavities.
When this happens, your dentist, Dr. Bahar Rowhani, often has to use large inlay or onlay fillings to repair the cavity. Even though these large fillings effectively repair the integrity of the biting surfaces, they could cause complications as time goes on.
If your dentist notices that you’re having a hard time keeping these areas clean, they might recommend applying dental sealants.
Dental sealants in Falls Church, Virginia, are basically durable, plastic, resin shells that your dentist paints onto the biting surfaces of your molars and premolars. A special ultraviolet light is then used to harden the resin, creating a barrier between any stuck-on plaque and food particles and the healthy tooth enamel.
Your dentist often recommends having dental sealants applied immediately following your regular dental checkup. That way we know the enamel area is thoroughly cleaned and prepared. Once the sealants have hardened in place, they will be very durable. Even with brushing twice a day, they should last for many years.
If you are interested in dental sealants, you should call 703-241-0666 to schedule an appointment at Falls Church Comprehensive Dentistry.