Fissure Sealants
Protect your little ones from tooth decay
Book your child’s appointment for fissure sealants
at Complete Smile Dental now
Fissure Sealants
Protect your little ones from tooth decay
Book your child’s appointment for fissure sealants
at Complete Smile Dental now
Fissure Sealants
The chewing surfaces of your back teeth are vulnerable spots in your oral health, especially for children. The natural pits and grooves, called fissures, of premolars and molars can be very difficult to clean with a normal oral hygiene routine. So, they commonly trap food particles and bacteria, creating a breeding ground for tooth decay.
This trouble can be even worse for children, whose fissures are typically deep and narrow, and individuals with diets rich in refined sugars and starches. However, fissure sealants can prevent many of the issues related to deep and narrow fissures by acting as a shield to keep debris out of them.
Prevalence of tooth decay in children
Tooth decay, known as dental caries, is a widespread chronic condition affecting individuals worldwide. In Australia, the impact of tooth decay on children’s oral health is substantial, with nearly half of Australian children experiencing tooth decay by the age of 6 (Mejia et al. 2012).
This underscores the critical importance of early preventive measures, such as fissure sealants and regular dental check-ups, to safeguard oral health and mitigate the long-term effects of tooth decay.
Fissure sealants
The back teeth, where fissures are found, can be protected with fissure sealants. These are usually made of plastic resin which adheres to the chewing surfaces to function as shields, protecting them against harmful bacteria and food particles. Glass ionomer cement, which provides better penetration into deeper fissures, is another option sometimes used. This ensures protection which exceeds even that afforded by plastic resin.
All of our sealants at Complete Smile Dental are reinforced with fluoride-releasing materials, offering an extra layer of defence and strengthening the teeth against possible damage.
Benefits of fissure sealants
- Prevent tooth decay: Fissure sealants are very helpful in preventing tooth decay because they efficiently seal off pits and grooves on tooth surfaces. This barrier limits the accumulation of food particles and harmful bacteria, reducing the development of cavities and tooth decay significantly.
- Strengthen tooth structure: Fluoride-infused sealants offer an added layer of protection by strengthening tooth enamel. This increased resistance fortifies the teeth against acid-corrosive effects, enhancing overall oral health.
- Cost-effective oral care: As a preventative measure, fissure sealants provide a cost-effective alternative to treating cavities and decay once they have developed. Investing in sealants has the potential to reduce future dental expenses and discomfort.
- Non-invasive treatment: The straightforward and pain-free application of fissure sealants makes them an ideal option for individuals seeking dental protection without invasive procedures. This fast and gentle procedure protects teeth without the need for complicated interventions.
Application process
- Tooth preparation: Before applying the sealant, our dental hygienist or dentist will thoroughly clean your tooth. This cleaning ensures that no debris or contaminants are present on the tooth’s surface, allowing for the proper adhesion of the sealant.
- Conditioning: After cleaning, a mild acid-etching solution is used to condition the tooth. This step is crucial because it creates a microscopically rough surface on the tooth, which strengthens the bond between the sealant and tooth enamel.
- Drying: After the tooth has been conditioned, it is carefully dried to get rid of any remaining moisture. Effective bonding of the sealant material requires a completely dried surface.
- Sealant application: We meticulously apply the fissure sealant to the prepared tooth. This material is typically a thin, liquid resin that can seep into the fissures and grooves of the chewing surface of the tooth.
- Light curing: A dental curing light is used to harden the sealant and ensure it forms a solid, protective barrier. The light activates a chemical reaction within the sealant material, causing it to rapidly harden and bond securely to the tooth’s surface.
- Assessment and polishing: After the sealant has hardened, we will evaluate its placement and make any adjustments necessary to ensure a proper seal. The surface is polished, and any excess material is removed to ensure a comfortable bite.
- Final inspection:A final inspection is performed to confirm that the sealant has been applied correctly and provides complete coverage of the tooth’s fissures.
Durability of fissure sealants
Fissure sealants show remarkable durability but are not considered permanent solutions. They may experience general wear and tear over time, as well as occasional minor chipping or fracturing. Fortunately, fissure sealants can be readily replenished with additional sealant material.
The longevity of fissure sealants typically ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on factors such as your dental hygiene and diet choices. To ensure maximum protection against tooth decay, visit Complete Smile Dental every 6 months for check-ups and cleanings. During these appointments, we will also evaluate the condition of your sealants and make any required repairs or replacements.
Key considerations
While fissure sealants are a highly beneficial preventive measure, they cannot replace diligent oral hygiene. They are most effective when combined with regular brushing, flossing and dental visits.
Proper oral hygiene practices remain vital components of maintaining overall oral health. These practices ensure that all tooth surfaces, including those not protected by sealants, remain clean and caries-free, thereby providing optimal protection against tooth decay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the deep grooves and pits (fissures) of teeth to prevent decay. Available in white or clear, they are typically made of plastic resin or glass ionomer cement, sometimes with added fluoride.
Are fissure sealants safe?
Yes, fissure sealants are safe and effective in preventing tooth decay. The materials used in sealants have been extensively tested and are approved for dental use. They are non-toxic and do not cause any adverse reactions in most patients.
At what age should children get fissure sealants?
Children can get fissure sealants on their permanent molars as soon as they erupt, typically around ages 5–7 for the first molar and ages 11–14 for the second molar. However, some children may also need fissure sealants on their deciduous (primary) teeth, especially if they have deep fissures that are more prone to decay.
Can adults use fissure sealants?
Yes, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from fissure sealants.
How long does the application process take?
The application process is quick, typically taking only a few minutes per tooth.
Do fissure sealants last forever?
No, fissure sealants do not last forever. They can wear down over time from chewing and brushing. They may also become dislodged or cracked. We can check the condition of your fissure sealants during your 6-monthly check-ups and replace them if needed.
Fissure Sealant Treatment in The Gap
Secure a childhood free from cavities with our quality fissure sealants at Complete Smile Dental. Our team gladly takes their utmost care to make your child’s dental experience memorable for all the right reasons. Book an appointment now to discover how our expertly applied sealants can protect your child’s teeth for these precious years.
Book your child’s fissure sealant treatment with us!
Call (07) 3300 3388 or book online.
The health of your child’s bright happy smile starts here!