Fissure Sealant
A fissure sealant is typically a plastic coating that is applied on the teeth’s biting surfaces. The sealant is used to shield the tiny grooves of the teeth from food bacteria that can stay lodged in the fissures. Thus sealant helps in protecting the teeth from decay. This is a non-invasive, fast and painless treatment.
Who Needs Fissure Sealant
Generally, fissure sealants are geared towards children between the ages of 6 and 14, but it can be used for adults too. For both children and adults, the fissure sealants are used on molars and premolars. These teeth have fissures and pits on the biting surfaces, and often food particles stay lodged in them. This can result in developing of plaque and cavities, which can damage your teeth and gums.
This is a preventive maintenance procedure that reduces the risk of tooth decay.
The Procedure
The fissure sealant procedure is quite straightforward and is completed in one visit. However, it is essential that you get your sealant checked every time you visit your dentist since it is not a permanent solution. Generally, a sealant on a permanent tooth can last up to 10 years.
Step 1: The tooth is cleaned of all the heavy stains, debris, deposits and plaque. The tooth is air polished and dried thoroughly after which the tooth conditioner is applied.
Step 2: The tooth conditioner increases the adhesive forces, as the sealants do not bond with the tooth directly. The tooth that receives the sealant is isolated with a dry-angle, dental dam or cotton rolls. After the conditioner is applied, it is allowed to dry and rinse. Next, the tooth is dried again thoroughly.
Step 3: The dentist now applies the sealant in the pits and the fissure after mixing the material. The dentist ensures that there are no bubbles in the filling, and if there is, it is broken before it sets. A curing light is used for polymerisation.
Step 4: The dentist checks the sealant setting and the occlusion with articulating silk or paper. If required, the excess sealant is removed with a scaler.
It is important that even after your dentist has put fissure sealant, you take proper care of your teeth and maintain your oral hygiene.
To get detailed information about whether you or your children need fissure sealants, contact our dentists at Chats Dental now. We can help you to prevent future tooth decay. At Chats Dental we also offer Painless Dentistry.
Fissure Sealant Treatment
Actual Work by Our Dentists
BEFORE & AFTER
