No. 2 | Dec. 18, 1998- Jan. 18, 1999 |
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Pit and fissure caries on the other
hand occurs on the grooves and other deep crevices of the tooth. These
type of caries are most common and are usually found on the occlusal portion
of molar teeth.
A salient feature of pit and fissure caries is that they progress in a pyramid form, with the apex as the point of entry and with the base towards the inner portion of the tooth. This happens in the fact that dentin beneath the enamel is much softer, and as caries penetrated the dentin layer, it progresses in a horizontal position, creating an undermined enamel above it. This serves as a precaution therefore, in that this type of caries might appear very small on the outside, appearing |
only as black line that runs across
the tooth. Not until one feels sensitivity and even pain that the extent
of the caries is being realized.
The trend of modern dentistry is the focus on prevention. A regular visit to the dentist of least twice a year is a sound investment. Remember that nothing can replace a natural dentition and expenses of a regular visit is much lesser than spending on procedures done after everything is too late. Next on the Molar Truth: |
No. 2 | Dec. 18, 1998- Jan. 18, 1999 |
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