What Are Fissure Sealants?
Fissure sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, which have natural grooves that are often deep and difficult to clean effectively, even with regular brushing. By filling these grooves, sealants create a smooth surface that prevents debris and bacteria from settling.
As a preventive dental treatment, fissure sealants protect teeth from cavities and decay. After your dental check-ups with our dentist, he will review your oral health and recommend whether sealants are suitable for you. This simple, pain-free procedure involves applying a protective coating to the grooves and pits of molars and premolars, where plaque and food particles tend to accumulate. In turn, sealants act as a barrier, shielding these vulnerable areas from harmful bacteria and acids. Consequently, they are especially beneficial for children and teenagers.
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What does a fissure sealant do ?
Decay Prevention: Sealants create a protective barrier against plaque and acids, significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay. In addition, they prevent harmful bacteria and food particles from settling in the deep grooves of your teeth. As a result, sealants provide long-term protection, helping to maintain optimal oral health by preventing cavities before they even start.
Non-Invasive: One of the key advantages of sealants is that the procedure is entirely non-invasive. Unlike other treatments that may require drilling or removal of tooth structure, sealant application is simple and painless, making it a comfortable and straightforward option for patients, particularly children.
Long-Lasting Protection: With consistent oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups, sealants can last for several years, ensuring prolonged defense against cavities and tooth decay. This long-lasting protection provides peace of mind, as the need for more invasive treatments is greatly reduced over time.
Cost-Effective: Sealants are a cost-effective solution for cavity prevention. By protecting teeth from decay, sealants can save patients from the future expense and discomfort of more invasive restorative treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals, which can be both costly and time-consuming. Ultimately, investing in sealants can lead to significant savings in dental care while promoting long-term oral health.
Who are ideal Candidates for Fissure Sealants ?
Fissure sealants are commonly recommended for:
Children and Teenagers: Newly erupted permanent molars and premolars are particularly vulnerable to decay, making this an ideal time for sealants.
High-Risk Individuals: Patients with a history of cavities or deep grooves in their teeth can benefit greatly from the added protection of sealants.
Adults: Additionally, adults with healthy molars, free of decay or fillings, may also benefit from sealants to help maintain long-term oral health.
How long does a fissure seal take ?
The process is quick and easy, typically taking only a few minutes per tooth. Moreover, it is designed to be efficient, ensuring minimal disruption to your schedule.
How the Sealant Application Process happen ?
What is the best age to apply fissure sealant ?
To ensure optimal protection, apply fissure sealants soon after your child’s permanent molars erupt. This typically happens between the ages of 6 and 12, making it the perfect time to prevent decay effectively.
Are dental sealants worth the money ?
In many cases, dental sealants offer an excellent investment. They are more affordable than other treatments and help reduce the need for invasive dental work in the future. However, they might not be the right option for everyone.
What colour are fissure sealants ?
The dentist paints the sealant onto the prepared tooth surface, allowing it to flow into the grooves and pits. The sealant can be either clear or white in colour, providing a discreet and effective protective layer.
How long do fissure seals last ?
To maximize the longevity of fissure sealants, it is essential to:
First, practice regular brushing and flossing to maintain overall oral hygiene. Additionally, visit the dentist for routine check-ups to ensure the sealants remain intact. Finally, avoid chewing hard foods or objects that could potentially damage the sealant.
What is the difference between a filling and a fissure seal ?
Dentists use fillings to restore teeth to their normal shape, appearance, and function by treating cavities caused by tooth decay. Additionally, fissure sealants help prevent tooth decay by filling the natural pits and fissures in molar teeth, where decay commonly occurs.
Why choose JR Medical ?
Our expert dentists, known for their friendly and compassionate personalities, work to keep your child calm and comfortable throughout the treatment. We understand the importance of creating a positive experience, especially for younger patients. Moreover, at JR Medical, we are CQC registered and proud members of the BDA and BSP, which guarantees that we adhere to the highest standards of dental care. This combination of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to quality ensures your child receives the best possible care in a safe and supportive environment.
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