Make Sure Your Children are the Only Ones Eating Their Lunch!
After eating, if your children do not properly clean their teeth, bacteria eats sugar and
starch from food and uses it as a source of energy. The bacteria convert sugar and starch into
harmful acids that attack tooth enamel. If repeated attacks are allowed, they may cause the
tooth enamel to break down, which will result in cavities.
Are Some Areas of Teeth Harder to Clean Than Others?
When a tooth is developing, deep grooves form in the biting surfaces of the back teeth.
These grooves are called "fissures". When two or more fissures intersect, it is called a "pit".
Thorough daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing help remove food particles from the smooth surfaces
of teeth. But because toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the pits and fissures,
food and bacteria cannot be easily removed. Tooth sealants protect these vulnerable areas by
"sealing out"" plaque and food.
Does the Process Hurt?
Sealants are easy and painless for your dentist to apply, and it only takes a few minutes to seal
each tooth. As long as the sealant remains intact, the sealed tooth surface will be protected from
decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last several years.
During your regular dental visits, your dentist will check the condition of the sealants and reapply
them if necessary.
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