Is there any particualr way to protect the first molars once they are in?

[olivo]

DD2 has got her first molars, and they look slightly strange, having almost two circles within them that look prone to decay - they are areas that food collects in when she has eaten. Is there anything particular, other than the obvious brushing and careful with foods, that i can do to protect them? Her last lot of milk molars will be through soon I think, too.

Do you mean they're her adult molars or first child molars? Adult molars can be protected by fissure sealing - a dentist job which I suspect is available on the NHS for children... not sure though sorry.

For child molars it's just the ususal stuff - brush regularly, don't have sweet drinks inc. fruit juice and formula after brushing and before bed - water only.... Generally avoid sweets etc... If you're worried about enamel generally you can get flouride drops too...

And to check the quality of brushing that your DD is doing you could use disclosing tablets

I do know there is a coating that can be painted onto adult teeth to help protect weaker teeth from decay - its something I've discussed with our Dentist as DD has had problems with weak tooth enamel - also our friend had it done on her older DCs teeth - but I think it depends on how many adult teeth they have - DDs can't be done until older, but shes no molars yet - friends DCs was about 11/12 at the time-

might be worth having a chat with your dentist about though :)

sorry, she is only 21 months, these are her first milk molars. i had fissure sealants on my adult molars, as i have deep fissures. they are god. I just wondered if there is anything similar for baby teeth.

My 7yo DS had his molars sealed. They are baby teeth, but they will be there until he is 12, so you may do it if you don't mind "wasting" the money.
Not sure if a 21 m baby will stay still enough during the procedure..?? It takes some time to dry, and you have to keep your mouth open for quite a long time.
I did it to encourage positive dentist experience, and to ensure a good mouth as an adult. Of course, you still have to brush minimum twice per day, etc...

thank you, gordon, that is interesting. i wouldnt mind paying for it when she is old enough to tolerate it!