Why aren't sealants used on all teeth?
Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. Pits and fissures, however, are places that are extremely difficult to clean. Tooth brush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to extract food particles and plaque. The normal flow of saliva, which helps clean food particles from other areas of the mouth, cannot "wash out" pits and fissures, so they are places that are especially prone to decay. In fact, most cavities form in pit and fissure areas, and permanent molars are extremely susceptible to this form of decay. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by "sealing out" plaque and food
How long do sealants last?
As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last several years before a reapplication is needed. During your regular dental visits, we will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.
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