If you have ever wondered how to protect your teeth from decay, you are not alone. Dental decay is one of the major threats to our oral health, and it often starts in those tiny, hard‑to‑clean spots called fissures. Fissure sealants have become an important part of modern dentistry, making a huge difference in preventing tooth decay and keeping smiles healthy for longer.
In this article, we will walk you through the fissure sealants procedure. We will break down why it is important, what to expect, and how this simple treatment can benefit both children and adults.
What Are Fissure Sealants?
A fissure sealant is a thin coating applied to the tooth surface, especially over the deep grooves and pits of molars and premolars. These teeth have natural fissures that can trap food debris and plaque, making them more prone to causing tooth decay.
Dental fissure sealants are made from a special resin that bonds to the tooth’s surface, creating a protective shield. Dental sealants help block out bacteria and plaque that can seep into these tiny spaces, making it harder for decay to take hold.
Why Do We Need Fissure Sealants?
Applying fissure sealants can significantly reduce the risk of dental decay in these areas. It is especially effective for children, teenagers, and adults with deep pits in their teeth. Even adult molars can benefit from a fissure sealant treatment if a dentist finds deep grooves that vary depending on the shape and structure of your teeth.
Understanding the Fissure Sealant Procedure: What to Expect
If you have never experienced a fissure sealant procedure before, you might be wondering what it involves. The good news is that this sealant procedure is quick, comfortable, and highly effective. Here is how it works:
1. Cleaning the Tooth Surface
First, your dentist will thoroughly clean and dry the tooth surface. This step removes any food debris, plaque, or bacteria from the pits and fissures.
2. Preparing the Fissure
Once the tooth is clean, an acid solution is applied to the fissure area. This mild acid prepares the tooth surface, making it slightly rougher so the sealant can bond effectively.
3. Applying the Dental Fissure Sealant
The fissure sealant material is then placed into the deep grooves and fissures of the tooth. It flows easily, covering the surface and filling any tiny pits where bacteria can settle.
4. Curing the Sealant
A special light is used to harden the sealant. This creates a strong, protective barrier over the tooth surface.
5. Final Inspection
The dentist will then check the sealant placement and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth bite. Once this is done, you can resume normal activities right away.
The Benefits of Fissure Sealant Treatment: Protecting Your Teeth for the Long Term
Fissure sealants are an excellent way to support long‑term oral health. Here is why:
- Prevention of Decay: The sealant acts as a barrier, making it harder for bacteria and food debris to settle in deep grooves.
- Easy and Comfortable: The procedure is quick and easy.
- Cost‑Effective: Fissure sealant treatment can save you money in the long run by avoiding the need for more extensive treatments like fillings or root canals.
- Effective for All Ages: Although popular with children, adult molars can benefit from fissure sealing, too.
- Supports Oral Care: Fissure sealants complement regular brushing, flossing, and fluoride treatments, making your daily routine more effective.
Fissure Sealing and Its Role in Maintaining Oral Health
Fissure sealing is a valuable part of oral care. Even with regular brushing and routine dentist appointments, certain areas in the mouth can be challenging to maintain. The deep fissures in molars, for example, can quickly accumulate plaque and bacteria that may lead to tooth decay.
With a fissure sealant in place, you have an added layer of protection. The sealant can significantly reduce the risk of decay, making it an ideal option for patients who have deep pits or fissures that vary depending on their tooth anatomy.
Fissure Sealants vs. Fluoride Varnish: What Is the Difference?
While both treatments support oral health and protect teeth, they work differently:
- Fissure Sealants: A physical barrier placed on the tooth surface. They fill deep grooves and protect against food debris and bacteria.
- Fluoride Varnish: A mineral treatment applied to the tooth surface that strengthens enamel and improves resistance to decay.
In many cases, dentists recommend both treatments together. The fissure sealant prevents decay in deep grooves, and the fluoride varnish strengthens the overall surface of the tooth.
The Importance of Regular Checkups
Even after a fissure sealant has been applied, it is vital to maintain regular checkups with your dentist. Dental sealants can last for many years, but they can wear down or chip over time. During routine appointments, your dentist will assess the sealant placement and recommend any necessary maintenance or reapplication.
Fissure Sealing for Adult Molars
While commonly used for children and teenagers, fissure sealants can also benefit adults. If you have deep grooves or pits in your molars or a history of tooth decay, a sealant procedure can be a proactive way to protect your teeth for the long term.
Adult molars, especially those with deep fissures, can be more prone to decay due to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria. Fissure sealants can be an effective way to protect these vulnerable areas and maintain a healthy smile.
Final Thoughts: A Simple, Effective Solution for Stronger Teeth
If you have deep fissures, molars prone to decay, or simply want to give your teeth an added layer of protection, book an appointment with Balmoral Dental Centre at (07) 3113 9789 to speak to your dentist about fissure sealant treatments. It is a quick, easy procedure that can benefit patients of all ages and help protect your oral health for years to come.
References
Healthdirect Australia. (n.d.). Dental fissure sealants. Retrieved from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-fissure-sealants#:~:text=What%20do%20dental%20fissure%20sealants,teeth%20can%20cause%20tooth%20decay
New York State Department of Health. (n.d.). Fluoride varnish: Frequently asked questions [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/dental/docs/fluoride_varnish_faq.pdf
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental plaque: What is it & how to remove from teeth. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10953-plaque