Fissure Sealants

Fissure sealants are a preventive dental treatment designed to protect the chewing surfaces of children’s teeth, particularly the molars and premolars, from tooth decay. These sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves (fissures) on the back teeth, where food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped and cause cavities.

How Do Fissure Sealants Work?

Sealants work by creating a smooth, protective barrier over the deep grooves and fissures on the teeth’s surface. This barrier prevents food particles and bacteria from getting stuck in these hard-to-clean areas, reducing the risk of decay. The application process is quick, painless, and non-invasive.

Key Factors in Fissure Sealant Application

1. Age of the Child: The ideal age for applying fissure sealants is around 6 to 14 years, coinciding with the eruption of permanent molars.

2. Tooth Selection: Sealants are typically applied to the first and second permanent molars, but can also be used on primary molars if the child is at high risk of decay.

3. Dental Health Status: Children with deep grooves and fissures, or those with a history of cavities, are prime candidates for sealants.

The Application Process

1. Cleaning the Tooth: The dentist or dental hygienist will thoroughly clean the tooth to remove any plaque or food particles.

2. Drying the Tooth: The tooth is dried, and an absorbent material is placed around it to keep it dry.

3. Applying an Acidic Solution: An acidic solution is applied to the tooth’s chewing surface to roughen it up, allowing the sealant to bond better.

4. Rinsing and Drying Again: The tooth is rinsed and dried again after the acidic solution is applied.

5. Applying the Sealant: The sealant material is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. A curing light may be used to help the sealant harden faster.