What are fissure sealants?
A fissure sealant is a special thin plastic coating which often covers the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealants are applied on healthy teeth. They can be applied by Dentists and Dental Therapists.
Who gets a fissure sealant?
Once the back teeth have come through, usually between the ages of 6- 8 years old. Children will be assessed by the dentist and those who are at the highest risk of dental
decay will most likely have fissure sealants recommended.
How are fissure sealants placed?
For each tooth, the procedure only takes a few minutes. The clinician will clean, wash, and dry the tooth and then apply the fissure the sealant. The tooth needs to be kept isolated and cotton wool rolls will be used. To set the sealant a blue light will be used directly over the tooth.
What happens afterwards?
The patient might experience a strange taste, but they will be able to eat and drink as normal. During check-ups, the fissure sealants will be reviewed by your dentist and replaced if necessary.
Resources:
Scottish Dental Effectiveness Group
Photographs courtesy of the Scottish Dental Effectiveness Group.