What are Fissure Sealants?

Fissure Sealants are an important treatment option in preventing dental decay.

Our goal for every patient is to experience the least amount of dental treatment possible.

This goal starts from childhood. We know that children who enter adulthood with the fewest fillings will enjoy the lowest risk of future problems.

Fissure sealants, which are simply a coating that is placed on the biting surface of back teeth, give us an important treatment option that can dramatically reduce the number of fillings placed in permanent teeth.

Naturally developed, the chewing or biting surface of the back teeth have deep grooves which reach into the center of the teeth.

Some patients have deeper grooves than others.

Most of these grooves are narrower than a single toothbrush bristle but wide enough for bacteria.

Problems arise because these grooves are hard to keep clean. Food and bacteria accumulate resulting in early decay formation.

Fissure seals are a great way to protect these teeth from decay.

If the grooves in adult back teeth are sealed at a young age, the risk of decay occurring on the chewing surfaces decreases dramatically.

This procedure can be done quickly and without any discomfort.

If the grooves are free of cavities, they can be gently cleaned out and prepared for the seal.

A fluoride releasing material is flowed into the grooves and sealed. Within a few minutes, the permanent molars receive a protective measure against cavities.

Sealants only last a few years and may need to be repaired or replaced periodically.

But research confirms a 90% reduction in chewing surface cavity activity in sealed molars.

This cost-effective, simple step may help your child enter adulthood with fewer fillings and less risk of major dentistry in the future.

Fissure sealants are an important tool in preventing tooth decay.

Especially when used in combination with other preventative measures, like biannual checkups and an excellent daily home care routine, sealants can bolster the mouth’s natural defenses, and keep smiles healthy.

How are sealants applied?

Initially, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and prepared before applying sealant.

When the tooth is sealed to Dr Somana’s satisfaction, the sealant is either left to self-harden or exposed to a specialized bright blue light to hasten the hardening process.

The final result is a clear (or whitish) layer that is hard and durable.

It should be noted that the “sealing” procedure is easily completed in one visit and is entirely painless.

When should sealants be applied?

Sealants are usually applied when the adult molars first emerge. However, they can still be applied later in life on an as need basis.

The sealant durability depends on the oral habits of the individual but can last several years before needing to be replaced.

Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.

If the seal begins to chip of lift off the tooth, food and bacteria can accumulate under the seal leading to tooth decay. Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new sealants.

If you think you or your child could benefit from fissure sealants, please call Signature Dentistry on 9826 1338 or fill out our online book appointment form and a member of our staff will be more than happy to help you.