June 12, 2017

Permanent molars and premolars often have deep pits and fissures in the tooth enamel of the biting surface. This helps the teeth to efficiently breakdown and process tough foods before swallowing. Unfortunately, these deep recesses in the tooth enamel can occasionally trap food material and bacterial deposits.

When this happens your teeth are at increased risk of suffering from large cavities on the biting surface.

If you’re struggling to clean these areas by brushing your teeth, Dr. Kent Nuttall might recommend apply dental sealants to the biting surface. This is a special dental resin that he paints onto the teeth. Once the dental sealants have been cured by an ultraviolet light they will protect the biting surfaces of the teeth for up to ten years.

You shouldn’t worry about regular tooth brushing wearing away the sealants as they are very durable. Your routine dental checkups at Dr. Kent Nuttall’s clinic will also include a dental cleaning and exam to monitor the health of your mouth and the integrity of the dental sealants. If you have any oral hygiene questions or concerns, you should feel free to let Dr. Kent Nuttall know.

If you live in the Auburn, Washington area and you’re concerned about preventing cavities on the premolars and molars in the back of your mouth, you should call (253) 939-0700 to schedule an appointment at Nuttall Smiles.