First, the sulcus and sulcus caries
When we open our mouth, we can see that the occlusal surface (the side of chewing food) of the back teeth is uneven, and the depressed part is called the sulcus. If the development is not good, these sockets are very deep, food and bacteria are embedded in them, and caries (worm teeth) will occur easily, and this kind of caries is called sulcus caries in medicine. According to the oral epidemiological survey, more than 90% of the caries (worm teeth) of our teenagers occur in the sulcus area.
What do you mean by “gutter closure”?
It is a polymer composite resin material that is applied to the sulcus and cured and hardened when it flows into and penetrates the sulcus, forming a protective barrier that covers the sulcus.
Third, what are the benefits of fossa closure?
On the one hand, the original bacteria in the sulcus are cut off from the source of nutrition and gradually die; on the other hand, the cariogenic bacteria outside cannot enter again, thus achieving the purpose of preventing sulcus caries.
Who is suitable to do the fossa closure?
The method of sulcus closure is mainly used for the newly erupted permanent molars of children and adolescents to prevent caries (worm teeth). Sixth-aged teeth are the teeth that bear the most important function of chewing, because of early eruption, if not pay attention to protection, it is easy to get caries (insect tooth), so it becomes the main target of the gutter closure. Usually, six-year-old teeth are fully erupted at the age of 7-8, which is the best age for closure.
V. Do other people need to do gash closure?
The middle-aged and old people have already passed the period of susceptibility to the sulcus caries, and some of them have already got the caries (worm teeth). At the same time, the sulcus of the posterior teeth gradually becomes shallow or disappears with the wear of chewing food, therefore, it is not necessary to do sulcus closure in general.
The teeth with shallow sockets, the front teeth and the adjacent surface of the back teeth (the surface between the two teeth in contact with each other), and the teeth with caries (worm teeth) also do not need to do sulcus closure.
How long does the sealant last?
Generally speaking, the sealant can be retained for a long time. After the closure, it is better to do a review in 3-6 months, and in the future, when doing the routine oral examination every year, the closed teeth should be checked at the same time, so as to find out whether the sealant falls off in time, so as to make up for it in time.
VII. Is there any uncomfortable feeling?
There is no uncomfortable feeling in the process of closure.
VIII. Is there any harm to the teeth?
Closure is a painless and non-invasive method, and the technology has been used for more than 50 years in the international arena. The use of non-toxic closure materials, no harm to the teeth, even if the closure material is swallowed off, there is no adverse impact on human health.
Nine, the standard of dental health
Neat teeth, no caries (worm teeth), no pain, normal color of gums (flesh) (pink), no bleeding.
Ten, the main cause of caries (insect tooth) and periodontal disease
Plaque is the main causative factor of caries and periodontal disease (such as gum bleeding). It is a film containing a large amount of bacteria adhering to the surface of teeth.
XI. Main methods to prevent caries (worm teeth) and periodontal disease
In addition to the gutter closure mentioned before, the main methods to prevent caries (insect tooth) and periodontal disease include
(i) Brushing.
It is the most simple and effective method to remove plaque. It should be done once in the morning and once in the evening. The correct method of brushing is to place the toothbrush bristles at the junction of teeth and gums, with the toothbrush bristles at an angle of 45 degrees to the surface of teeth, and then brush vertically along the gap between teeth after a short horizontal chatter.
(ii) Use fluoride.
Fluoride is an essential trace element that can strengthen the structure of teeth and bones, and also has the function of inhibiting bacteria to achieve the purpose of caries prevention. The most commonly used methods include fluoride toothpaste, fluoride foam, fluoride coating, etc.
(iii) Eat more tooth-healthy food, less sugary food and reduce the number of sweet food.
The diet that is beneficial to dental health basically includes: grains and cereals, beans, milk and its dairy products, fish, meat, eggs, vegetables and fruits. Diets harmful to teeth basically include: candy, sweet drinks and other refined foods containing sugar.
(iv) Regular oral examination.
Caries (worm teeth) and periodontal diseases do not have any pain and other discomfort in the early stage and can only be checked by the dentist with instruments. Early treatment is painless, long term effect is good and low cost. Your doctor will also take preventive measures to maintain your oral health according to your specific situation.