Good oral hygiene is the foundation of a healthy smile, but sometimes brushing and flossing aren’t enough to protect teeth from decay. This is where pit and fissure sealants come into play. These protective coatings are designed to safeguard the grooves and crevices in your teeth, which are often hard to clean and can trap food and bacteria. In this blog, we’ll explore what pit and fissure sealants are, why they’re important, and how they work to keep your teeth healthy.
What are Pit and Fissure Sealants?
Pit and fissure sealants are a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have deep grooves (pits and fissures) that can be difficult to clean with a toothbrush, making them more susceptible to cavities. The sealant fills in these grooves, creating a smooth surface that is easier to keep clean.
Sealants are typically made of a durable resin material that bonds directly to the enamel of the tooth. They provide an added layer of protection against plaque, food particles, and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay.
Why Are Pit and Fissure Sealants Important?
The chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars are naturally uneven, with small pits and fissures where food can get stuck. These areas are often too small for toothbrush bristles to reach effectively, which increases the likelihood of cavities forming.
Pit and fissure sealants offer a simple and effective solution to this problem. By sealing off these deep grooves, sealants help prevent decay before it even starts. In fact, studies have shown that children and adults with sealants are significantly less likely to develop cavities in these areas.
Here are some key reasons why pit and fissure sealants are important:
- Prevention of Cavities: Sealants act as a barrier to protect teeth from the harmful effects of food, bacteria, and acids that can cause cavities.
- Long-lasting Protection: Sealants can last several years with proper care, providing long-term protection against tooth decay.
- Non-invasive: Applying sealants is a painless and non-invasive procedure. It does not require drilling or anesthesia, making it a stress-free option for patients.
- Cost-effective: Preventing cavities with sealants can save money on more extensive dental treatments, such as fillings or root canals, in the future.
- Safe and Effective: Pit and fissure sealants are safe and have been used for decades as an effective preventive treatment in dentistry.
Who Should Get Pit and Fissure Sealants?
Pit and fissure sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers, as their back teeth are more likely to develop cavities due to the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces. The American Dental Association recommends that children get sealants on their molars as soon as they erupt, usually between the ages of 6 and 12.
However, adults can also benefit from sealants if their molars have deep grooves or if they are at a higher risk for tooth decay. A dentist can assess your risk of cavities and recommend sealants if necessary.
Here are some common situations where pit and fissure sealants may be recommended:
- Children and Adolescents: Sealants are often applied as soon as permanent molars come in, typically around age 6 for the first set of molars and around age 12 for the second set.
- Adults with Deep Grooves: Adults with deep fissures in their teeth who are prone to cavities may also benefit from sealants.
- High Risk for Cavities: Individuals with a history of frequent cavities, poor oral hygiene, or a diet high in sugary foods may benefit from sealants.
- Teeth with Shallow or Newly Erupted Grooves: If you have newly erupted molars with shallow grooves, sealants can help prevent cavities from forming in these areas.
How are Pit and Fissure Sealants Applied?
The application of pit and fissure sealants is a simple and quick procedure. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:
- Cleaning: The dentist will first clean the surface of the tooth to remove any plaque, food particles, or debris. This ensures that the sealant will bond effectively to the enamel.
- Preparation: The dentist may lightly etch the surface of the tooth with an acidic solution. This helps the sealant material adhere better to the tooth enamel.
- Applying the Sealant: The liquid sealant is applied to the grooves of the tooth. It flows into the pits and fissures, creating a smooth, protective surface.
- Curing: Once the sealant is in place, the dentist will use a special light to harden or “cure” the sealant. This process usually takes just a few seconds.
- Final Check: The dentist will check the sealant to make sure it is properly placed and that it doesn’t interfere with your bite.
The entire procedure typically takes only a few minutes per tooth, and there is no discomfort involved.
How Long Do Pit and Fissure Sealants Last?
Pit and fissure sealants are durable and can last for several years. On average, sealants can stay in place for about 5 to 10 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene habits and diet. However, they may need to be reapplied or touched up if they begin to wear down over time.
It’s important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups to ensure that the sealants are still intact and effective. Your dentist will be able to assess the condition of your sealants and recommend any necessary adjustments.
Care After Getting Sealants
One of the benefits of pit and fissure sealants is that they require very little maintenance. However, there are some things you can do to help prolong their effectiveness:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to maintain your overall oral health.
- Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: While sealants are durable, they can be damaged by hard or sticky foods, such as chewing gum, caramel, or hard candies. Avoid these foods, especially in the days immediately following the application of sealants.
- Regular Dental Visits: Keep up with your routine dental visits so your dentist can monitor the condition of your sealants and address any potential issues.
Are Pit and Fissure Sealants Safe?
Yes, pit and fissure sealants are safe for both children and adults. The materials used for sealants are thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness. The sealants used in modern dentistry are BPA-free and are made of safe, non-toxic materials that have been used for decades with a proven track record.
Sealants are a preventive measure, meaning they help protect your teeth from decay before it happens, reducing the need for more invasive procedures like fillings or crowns.
Conclusion
Pit and fissure sealants offer a simple, safe, and effective way to protect your teeth from cavities. By sealing the grooves in the back teeth, sealants make it easier to keep these areas clean and prevent tooth decay. Whether for children or adults, sealants are a valuable preventive treatment that can help preserve oral health and avoid more extensive dental work in the future. If you or your child is at risk for cavities, consider discussing pit and fissure sealants with your dentist at your next visit.
Consult us today at Kasare Hospital for expert guidance!
