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This
information is provided to inform you about the concept of
sealing the grooves on teeth.
WHY
SEAL TEETH?
Over the past 15
or more years, numerous materials and techniques have been
developed to seal the top (occlusal) surfaces of teeth. These
procedures are necessary because many teeth have defective
occlusal surfaces when they complete mineralization, and food
debris and microorganisms penetrate into the tooth during
eating. Patients cannot clean these areas effectively and
dental decay (caries) occur frequently.
DO
ALL TEETH NEED TO BE SEALED?
Usually only
the back (posterior) teeth require sealing. We cannot tell
which teeth require sealing, since the incomplete fusion
of the teeth often leaves a nearly microscopic entry from
the enamel outside of the tooth into the softer dentin inside.
Therefore, it is suggested that all posterior teeth and
selected anterior teeth be sealed. A few teeth that do not
require sealing may be sealed inadvertently, because it
is impossible to select defective from non-defective teeth
at an early age.
WILL
ALL DECAY BE PREVENTED?
Sealants prevent
the majority of decay on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
However, routine flouride therapy is required to decrease
decay initiation on other surfaces of the teeth. Decay may
begin between the teeth even if sealants have been placed
if flossing and brushing are not adequate.
COST?
The cost for
sealing a tooth with plastic is less than ½ the cost
of filling (restoring) the tooth in the event of decay.
Further, the sealant does not require cutting or weakening
the tooth, while normal restorations require cutting and
weakening of the tooth.
HOW
LONG DO SEALANTS LAST?
Studies show
sealants last many years. However, occasional re-sealing
may be required depending on diet and other factors.
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