Fissure Sealants
Children's Dentistry
Fissure Sealants
Fissure sealants are used as preventive barriers on the child’s teeth that are most vulnerable to dental caries. They are most effective when applied to newly erupted teeth targeting the adult molars as this is when the teeth are most susceptible to tooth decay. Teeth have what we called fissures, which are crevices and grooves that are on the surface and are common to collect food and plaque which can sometimes be difficult to remove efficiently. Fissure sealants is a thin resin shielding film used to build up those deep grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth. This will allow added protection and encourage a longer lifespan for those teeth. Doing so will create a surface that allows you to clean more successfully and be able to remove food and bacteria from the built up fissure.
Newly erupted adult molar teeth usually begin to erupt approximately 6 years of age behind the baby molars. These are called your adult first molars. Fissure sealants are commonly placed in these teeth if required as the first adult molars do not replace any baby teeth, nor do they get replaced. This means these teeth need to last the child’s lifetime. It is important for parents to visit your local dentist when they see these teeth erupting in your childs mouth so your Dental clinician can pay close attention or fissure seal if needed.
Remember, fissure sealants is not a dental procedure requiring extensive work. It is a preventative service to help minimise the risk of tooth decay. Fissure sealants involve a very quick dental appointment where your child is comfortable throughout including a pain free, drill free and local anaesthetic free service.
Please contact us at Icon Dental Group for further information on 07 49392900 and to book your dental examination.
