What is Fissure Sealant Application?

Fissures are small cracks or grooves in the tooth surface. These cracks are usually found in areas that are difficult to clean during tooth brushing. Fissure sealant application is a treatment method used by dentists to cover these fissures and thus protect against decay.

Fissure sealant is a layer of resin that is usually applied to the chewing surface of the tooth. During this procedure, the dentist applies a special substance into the fissures and then hardens it with a light. This seals the tooth's fissures and then prevents the build-up of food debris or bacteria, preventing the formation of cavities.

What are the Advantages of Fissure Sealant Application?

The advantages of fissure sealant application can be listed as follows:

Cavity Prevention: Fissure sealant application closes cracks on the tooth surface and prevents the formation of caries caused by food residues or bacteria accumulated in these areas.

Easy Cleaning: Fissures are usually hard to reach with a toothbrush. With fissure sealant application, these areas are flattened and easier to clean.

Painless and Fast Application:

Effective in Children and Teenagers: In children and teenagers, the tooth surface is more vulnerable and caries is more common. Therefore, fissure sealants are particularly effective in these age groups.

However, like any treatment, fissure sealant application has some limitations. For example, if the tooth surface is not completely cleaned during the application, the sealant may not be effective. Therefore, regular dental check-ups and cleaning are important. Your dentist will help you determine the most appropriate treatment options.

How to Apply Fissure Sealant

The procedure begins with an examination and assessment by the dentist. The selected tooth surface is treated with a special acid solution, then cleaned and dried. The dentist applies a special resin sealant material to the selected area, which is then hardened with a special light. After the application is complete, the dentist checks that the sealant has set properly and makes adjustments if necessary.

The patient is given home care instructions, including regular brushing, flossing and periodic dental check-ups. The application of a fissure sealant offers an effective solution to prevent cavities.

Who Can Fissure Sealant Be Applied To?

Fissure sealants are generally recommended for people at high risk of developing caries. This usually includes the following groups:

Children and Teenagers:
Individuals at High Risk of Caries: Some individuals may be at risk of developing cavities due to genetic factors, dietary habits or oral hygiene issues. For these individuals, the application of fissure sealants can help prevent caries formation.

People who cannot clean molars well: Molars can be difficult to clean because of the indentations and ridges on their chewing surfaces. Fissure sealant application can reduce caries formation by facilitating the cleaning of these teeth.

Unfit for Dental Care: Some individuals may have difficulty brushing or flossing. Fissure sealants can support dental health by providing additional protection for these individuals.

Particularly in children, dentists often recommend fissure sealants to protect against the risk of cavities forming. However, each individual's situation is different, so this type of treatment requires a prior examination and evaluation.

Updated Date:26 December 2023Creation Date:08 December 2023

Pediatric Dentistry / Pedodontics