What Are Dental Fissure Sealants?

`If you have taken your child to the dentist recently and they mentioned dental fissure sealants, you may be left wondering what they are.

They can help to protect a child`s teeth, as well as those of adults, and create a protective layer over the surface of the tooth to prevent tooth decay from forming.

If you have heard fissure sealants mentioned in your dental clinic, here’s an explanation on what it is, what the benefits are, and how they are applied.

Fissure sealants explained

Fissure sealants are used on the molar teeth and can prevent cavities from forming in the grooves of the tooth. Even if there is already some decay, your dentist can apply fissure sealants and prevent any further damage from being done.

It is like putting a protective coat of varnish on wood, and gives the tooth an added layer of protection. The sealant can be seen on the teeth if the white one is used, but there are also clear sealants which cannot be seen once they have been applied. 

Who can have dental fissure sealant

You tend to find that this treatment is most often used in children with developing teeth, but it is something that can be used with adults also.

Whether it is an option for you or your child, you will need to seek the advice of a qualified dentist, as it is not always an option if there is already significant damage. 

Who applies dental fissure sealant?

Whether you go to one of the dentists in Sydney CBD on Macquarie Street, or anywhere else, they will be able to tell you whether fissure sealant is an option for you or your child.

If your dentist does recommend the treatment, then you may find that your dentist can do it for you. However, it is not a procedure that needs a lot of skill, so it is also a task that a hygienist or dental professional can carry out. 

What to expect? 

Unlike some other dental procedures, there is no pain, so no need to have an anaesthetic when your dentist uses fissure sealant on your teeth or those of your children. 

What are the steps involved in dental fissure sealants procedure? 

  • The first part of the process is the cleaning of the tooth thoroughly, which is why a dental hygienist will often carry out this procedure.
  • Once the teeth are clean, they will then be dried
  • Then it is time to prepare the surface of the teeth to ensure that there is a good bond with the sealant.
  • The fissure sealant is then painted onto the surface of the tooth and allowed to fill the cracks of the molars.
  • It is hardened using intense light.
  • Once the sealant is hard, it is then checked, and any excess material is removed from the surface of the tooth by polishing.
  • And they will also check that it does not affect the bite.

How long do they last? 

Dental fissure sealant has a lifespan of about ten years, although it will need to be checked regularly by your dentist.

Over time, the sealant can be chipped away and worn through chewing and grinding, but any damage to the sealant can be repaired easily.

SEE ALSO:
5 DENTAL HEALTH TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR TEETH FROM THE COLD
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD GET DENTAL IMPLANTS
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