Underwood (07) 3219 9806 Calamvale (07) 3273 3220

Fissure Sealants

Help your child fight tooth decay

Affordable and quality fissure sealant treatment
in Calamvale and Underwood.

Fissure Sealants

In dental terminology, fissures are the small hollows, pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, primarily the premolars and molars.

These natural crevices can easily trap food particles and bacteria, creating a breeding ground for tooth decay. This isof extra concern for children, as their fissures are often especially deep and narrow, so cleaning can prove a challenge even for the most masterful young tooth-brusher. Fissures are also troublesome for individuals eating diets rich in refined sugars and starches. Such food can adhere deep within fissures where it is metabolised into acid that can demineralise tooth enamel, setting the stage for cavities to form.

To counter these problems, fissure sealants can be applied to shield these vulnerable surfaces. This preventative measure makes oral hygiene significantly easier and effectively helps prevent decay.

Children’s oral health

Tooth decay, or dental caries, is a prevalent chronic condition worldwide, and has a substantial impact on the oral health of children in Australia. Nearly half of Australian children have experienced tooth decay by the age of 6, highlighting the importance of early preventive measures. Fissure sealants and regular dental check-ups form a major part of safeguarding oral health and mitigating the long-term effects of tooth decay.

children dental care

Fissure sealants

A fissure sealant is typically made of plastic resin material that bonds with the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. This sealant acts as a protective shield, safeguarding teeth from harmful bacteria and residual food particles. Certain sealants, made from glass ionomer cement, offer enhanced penetration into the deeper fissures, ensuring comprehensive protection.

At Healthy Smile Dental, all our sealants are enhanced with fluoride-releasing materials, providing an added layer of defence and fortifying the teeth against potential damage.

Benefits of fissure sealants

  • Prevention of tooth decay: Fissure sealants play a pivotal role in preventing tooth decay by effectively sealing off the pits and grooves on tooth surfaces. This barrier reduces the accumulation of food particles and harmful bacteria, thus significantly lowering the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
  • Reinforcement of tooth structure: Sealants infused with fluoride provide an extra layer of protection by strengthening tooth enamel. This added resilience further strengthens the teeth against the corrosive effects of acids, promoting overall oral health and longevity.
  • Cost-effective oral care: As a proactive measure, fissure sealants offer a cost-efficient alternative to addressing cavities and decay once they’ve developed. Investing in sealants can potentially save both dental expenses and discomfort down the road.
  • Non-invasive dental procedure: The application of fissure sealants is a straightforward and painless process, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking dental protection without invasive treatments. This quick and hassle-free procedure ensures teeth remain protected without the need for complex interventions.

Application process

  1. Preparation of the tooth: Our dental hygienist or dentist will thoroughly clean your tooth before applying the sealant. This cleaning ensures that no debris or contaminants are present on the tooth’s surface, allowing for optimal adherence of the sealant.
  2. Conditioning: After cleaning, the tooth is conditioned using a mild acid-etching solution. This conditioning step is crucial, as it creates a microscopically rough surface on the tooth, enhancing the bond between the sealant and the tooth’s enamel.
  3. Drying: Once the tooth has been conditioned, it is meticulously dried to remove any residual moisture. A completely dry surface is essential for the sealant material to adhere effectively.
  4. Sealant application: We will carefully apply the fissure sealant material to the prepared tooth. This material is typically a thin, liquid resin that can flow into the fissures and grooves of the tooth’s chewing surface.
  5. Light curing: To harden the sealant and ensure it forms a solid, protective barrier, a dental curing light is used. The light activates a chemical reaction in the sealant material, causing it to quickly harden and bond securely to the tooth’s surface.
  6. Assessment and polishing: After the sealant has hardened, we will assess its placement and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper seal. Any excess material is trimmed, and the surface is polished to ensure a smooth and comfortable bite.
  7. Final inspection: To complete the process, a final examination is performed to confirm that the sealant has been applied correctly and is providing comprehensive coverage to the tooth’s fissures and grooves

Considerations

Fissure sealants exhibit commendable durability but are not considered permanent solutions. Over time, they may experience general wear and tear and occasionally, minor chipping or breakage. Fortunately, fissure sealants can easily be restored and replenished with additional sealant material.

Diligent oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene practices remain essential components of maintaining overall oral health. These practices help ensure that all areas of the teeth, including those not covered by sealants, remain clean and free from decay, providing optimal protection from tooth decay.

Fissure sealants are a highly beneficial preventive measure, but they are not a substitute for good oral hygiene practices. They work most effectively in conjunction with regular brushing, flossing and dental visits.

Regular dental visits

Typically, the longevity of fissure sealants ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on various factors such as your hygiene practices and dietary habits. To ensure that they continue to protect your teeth from decay, it is important to visit Healthy Smile Dental for regular check-ups and cleanings. During these appointments, we can assess the condition of your sealants and make any necessary repairs or replacements.

fissure sealants

Fissure Sealants in Underwood and Calamvale

Give your child the gift of a healthy, cavity-free future. At Healthy Smile Dental we love to create pleasant oral care experiences for children, with lots of fun and learning along the way.

Contact us now to book an appointment and learn more about how our gentle and effective fissure sealants can safeguard your child’s teeth against cavities.

children oral health

Call us

Underwood (07) 3219 9806 | Calamvale (07) 3273 3220

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. They are typically made of plastic resin or glass ionomer cement, sometimes with added fluoride. Fissure sealants can be white or clear.

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.