All parents want their children to have a healthy and beautiful smile! That’s why we encourage home care complimented with regular check-ups. We want to help you stay well ahead of any possible problem areas or decay. But, there are some natural issues that even a great hygiene routine may not prevent.

Molar teeth have pits and grooves on the biting surface, called fissures. These grooves can be very deep and narrow and are the hardest part to clean with toothbrush. Some are too narrow for a single brush bristle! So no matter how well you clean it’s the most common site for decay in children and adult.

As we always say, “prevention is better than treatment”. It’s better to take action early to prevent decay. A proven strategy is to seal these grooves to block cavities from forming.

What is a Sealant?

Sealants are coatings placed on the chewing surface of tooth. More common for a young permanent molar which is vulnerable to decay. Fissures can be deep and narrow, leading to plaque and build-up in these areas. This allows bacteria to attack tooth enamel which can develop into cavity. Sealants provide extra protection for these areas creating a smooth surface over fissured area.

This option does have a downside, as sealants are not permanent and will wear off or break down slowly over time. The average life is only 5-8 years! So when the material is compromised, bacteria can sneak through and build between the barrier and tooth surface, leading to risk of decay. Because this is only possible to detect with professional equipment, we recommend regular dental visits.

Why PRR?

“When discolouration is more than a stain and less than a cavity”

Preventative Resin Restoration (PRR) is a treatment to protect teeth from decay. So, the difference between sealant and PRR is durability and longevity. Sealants may last only 5-8 years, but PRR can last much longer, like any other permanent filling. In this procedure, a drill is used to remove decay, and the tooth is etched, rinsed and dried. Bonding agent is applied and cured. Then, filling material is placed in the pit and hardened with blue light. Regular dental visits after treatment will help maintain your child’s oral hygiene and prevent decay. Have questions about PRR or your dental treatment plan? Ask our team at Lynhurst Dental at your next visit, or contact us at https://lynhurstdental.ca/contact-us/

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