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Dental Caries on Pit and Fissure Surface: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Dental caries, also known as tooth decay, is a common dental problem affecting people of all ages. One of the most common types of dental caries is pit and fissure caries, which occurs on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of dental caries on the pit and fissure surface.

Causes

Dental caries on the pit and fissure surface is caused by bacteria in the mouth. When bacteria combine with food particles and saliva, they form a sticky film called plaque. Plaque can build up on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, especially in the pits and fissures. Over time, the acid produced by the bacteria in the plaque can dissolve the enamel of the tooth, leading to the formation of a cavity.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dental caries on the pit and fissure surface may include sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, pain when biting down, and visible holes or pits on the tooth surface. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all, making it important to have regular dental check-ups to detect any cavities early on.

Treatment

The treatment for dental caries on the pit and fissure surface depends on the severity of the cavity. In the early stages, the cavity may be treated with fluoride treatments or dental sealants. Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped in the pits and fissures. In more advanced cases, a filling or crown may be necessary to restore the tooth.

1. Fluoride treatments:

Fluoride treatments involve the application of a high concentration of fluoride to the tooth surface. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel of the tooth, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria.

2. Dental sealants:

Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped in the pits and fissures.

3. Filling or crown:

In more advanced cases, a filling or crown may be necessary to restore the tooth. A filling involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling it with a material such as composite resin or amalgam. A crown is a cap that is placed over the entire tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength.

Preventing dental caries on the pit and fissure surface involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a