Where do most children's cavities occur? The most likely sites are grooved back teeth. At Sunnyside Dentistry for Children in Clackamas, Dr. David Doyle and Dr. Eric Jacobsen offer pediatric dental sealants to reduce the threat of decay on these teeth.
Why do teeth decay?
The human mouth is teeming with oral bacteria. These microbes give off corrosive acids as they feed on food residues on teeth and in interdental spaces. Though minute in quantity, these acids create cavities.
The best of toothbrushers and flossers frequently miss accumulated plaque and tartar on their back teeth. Molars feature deep fissures and pits which really help with chewing food, but unfortunately, they easily collect biofilms and bacteria. So, cavities begin at these sites at the microscopic level where they can go undetected.
So, in their Clackamas office, Dr. Doyle and Dr. Jacobsen often include plastic sealants in their treatment plans. Proven to decrease the incidence of pediatric decay, these thin resin coatings smooth pits and fissures, providing a barrier to destructive microbes.
The sealant treatment
It takes just minutes. First, your dentist cleans and dries the tooth. Then, he applies a mild etching liquid so the sealant adheres to the enamel. Next, he carefully applies the sealant resin to grooved and fissured areas. Finally, Dr. Jacobsen or Dr. Doyle use a blue curing light to harden the sealant.
In all, each tooth takes about ten minutes. The treatment is painless, too. Your dentist will determine which of your child's teeth would benefit from sealants.
Fortunately, sealants last a long time--typically up to a year. If a portion of the coating wears thin or chips off over time, your dentist can re-apply the material easily.
Other preventive measures
Besides applying sealants, your dentist recommends twice-daily brushing and once a day flossing, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines. Additionally, offer your child a low-sugar diet, plenty of water throughout the day and bring him or her to Sunnyside Dentistry for Children semi-annually for a professional cleaning and examination.
Finally, model good oral habits for your children at home. Prevention really is the best medicine for the entire family.
Do you have any questions?
If you've been wondering about the value of plastic sealants for your children, please call Sunnyside Dentistry for Children. We'll be happy to answer all your questions. Phone (503) 855-5100.