The surfaces of your teeth have specific names. The occlusal surface denotes the parts of a tooth used for biting, chewing, or grinding. In the case of the premolars and molars in the back of your mouth, these areas often have deep pits and recesses in the tooth enamel.
While this helps the teeth be more efficient at chewing and grinding, the occlusal surface can also be difficult to clean during your daily brushing sessions. As time goes by food residue and bacterial deposits can build up in these areas foster large cavities.
To help prevent this from happening, Dr. Don Niu might recommend applying dental sealants after your routine dental checkup. They are a durable dental resin material that he paints onto the occlusal surface of each or your molars and premolars. This can be done immediately following your regular dental checkup and cleaning appointment.
Dr. Don Niu will then use a special ultraviolet light to harden the dental sealants. If any plaque and food particles become trapped in the area the dental sealants will prevent bacteria from direct exposure to the underlying tooth enamel. The dental sealants are designed to be very durable and can help to protect the biting surface on their back teeth for nearly a decade.
If you live in the Irvine, California, area and you are concerned about preventing cavities on your molars and premolars, you can always call 949-551-8877 to schedule a checkup at Irvine Dental Group.