Pits and Fissure Sealants
What are pits and fissures?
The back teeth of your child are full of grooves called pits and fissures. Food and bacteria become trapped in these deep grooves and cause tooth decay. Unfortunately, the fissures can be so narrow that even a toothbrush filament is too large to reach inside and clean thoroughly.
What are sealants?
Sealants are tough plastic coatings applied to the pits and fissures of the biting surfaces of the back teeth. Food and bacteria cannot penetrate this seal.
At what age should sealants be applied?
The best time is just after the back teeth erupt and before cavities have a chance to develop, usually around the age of 6. Sealants, however, can be used effectively at any time during childhood or adolescence.
How are sealants applied?
Applying sealants is a very simple painless procedure. The dentist or hygienist cleans the tooth surface and dries it. The sealant is then applied and flows into the pits and fissures where it sets hard in about 60 seconds. Sometimes a light is used to set the sealant.
Does it last?
Yes it does, although occasionally the sealant may need to be re-applied. Research has shown that fissure sealing greatly reduces the need for fillings in children.
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The back teeth of your child are full of grooves called pits and fissures. Food and bacteria become trapped in these deep grooves and cause tooth decay. Unfortunately, the fissures can be so narrow that even a toothbrush filament is too large to reach inside and clean thoroughly.
What are sealants?
Sealants are tough plastic coatings applied to the pits and fissures of the biting surfaces of the back teeth. Food and bacteria cannot penetrate this seal.
At what age should sealants be applied?
The best time is just after the back teeth erupt and before cavities have a chance to develop, usually around the age of 6. Sealants, however, can be used effectively at any time during childhood or adolescence.
How are sealants applied?
Applying sealants is a very simple painless procedure. The dentist or hygienist cleans the tooth surface and dries it. The sealant is then applied and flows into the pits and fissures where it sets hard in about 60 seconds. Sometimes a light is used to set the sealant.
Does it last?
Yes it does, although occasionally the sealant may need to be re-applied. Research has shown that fissure sealing greatly reduces the need for fillings in children.
back to information for patients >
