When your child’s permanent molars and premolars emerged from the gums, chances are good the occlusal, or biting, surfaces have deep textures in the tooth enamel. On the one hand, this helps them chew and grind tough foods more efficiently. On the other hand, these areas could prove to be challenging to clean from their twice-daily tooth brushing.

If stray food particles and bacterial residue buildup in these areas, it could lead to the formation of very large cavities on these very important teeth.

In a situation like this, Dr. Chi might recommend protecting the biting surfaces with dental sealants.

These are thin, durable, plastic, resin shells that your dentists carefully paint onto the biting surfaces of the molars and premolars. A dental-grade ultraviolet light will be used to harden the resin, creating a protective layer. If plaque and food particles get trapped on the biting surfaces, the dental sealants will prevent bacteria from having direct access to the underlying tooth enamel. Once the sealants have been hardened with a special ultraviolet light, they can last for many years.

Dental sealants are often applied immediately after the regular dental checkup at Buckland Hills Dental. This way our dentists know the enamel is perfectly clean.

If you are interested in protecting your son or daughter’s back teeth from occlusal cavities and you live in the Manchester, Connecticut, area, you should call (860) 644-0099 to schedule an appointment at Buckland Hills Dental.