If you have noticed that your child’s molars and premolars have some deep pits and fissures, know that these formations are normal and attribute to grinding down the tough foods your child eats. However, these areas can increase your child’s risk of tooth decay because they are difficult to properly clean. A child whose back teeth are hard to clean may benefit significantly from dental sealants, which protect and even out the deep contours of the teeth.
Deep fissures are breeding ground for the bacteria from food particles and plaque and can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially in the back teeth. These cavities may need large dental fillings, which can put the tooth at risk of future dental issues.
Dr. Mark Berard creates the sealants by applying durable plastic-resin to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars and then hardening the material with a special ultraviolet light. Placing dental sealants requires just a few minutes following a routine dental cleaning and exam.
Dental sealants create a barrier between the chewing surface and food particles and plaque, and they can last for many years without being eroded by brushing and flossing.
If you are interested in your child receiving dental sealants in Holland, Michigan, and would like to speak with our dentist, please call Mark D. Berard, DDS at 616-392-2853 today to schedule an appointment.