What are Fissure Sealants?
Fissures are grooves found in the chewing surface of back teeth. They are difficult to keep clean so there is more risk of decay.Fissures can be sealed with tough plastic to protect them.
The plastic is runny at first but sets hard, like paint. Sealants are usually tooth-coloured. They are normally only used for children and only on permanent teeth, not on milk teeth.
What will my dentist do?
Your dentist will:
- clean the tooth thoroughly with a rubber polisher
- dry the tooth and keep it dry by putting cotton wool round it
- dab a mild acid on the tooth to make the tooth surface rough (this will not hurt at all)
- wash and dry the tooth by blowing water and air onto it
- paint the plastic onto the fissures
- harden the plastic using a UV light
What are the benefits?
- Fissure sealants protect teeth from decay.
- They can last for years. Or, if they fall out or wear away, they can usually be replaced if there is no decay underneath.