The chewing surfaces of our back teeth — the premolars and molars — are not smooth. They contain natural grooves called fissures and small indentations called pits. While these features are part of normal tooth anatomy, they can pose a significant risk for tooth decay, especially in children and adolescents.
Because of their narrow and deep structure, pits and fissures are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Food particles and bacteria can accumulate in these areas, making them highly susceptible to dental caries (cavities).
What Are Pit and Fissure Sealants?
Pit and fissure sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. The primary purpose of sealants is to prevent cavities by creating a physical barrier that blocks food particles, plaque, and bacteria from settling into the deep grooves of the teeth.
Made of a tooth-colored resin material, sealants are a preventive treatment — meaning they are applied before decay develops.
Who Can Benefit from Sealants?
While sealants are most commonly applied in children and teenagers, adults can benefit as well, particularly those at higher risk of cavities.
Children and Teens:
- As soon as the first permanent molars erupt (around age 6).
- When second permanent molars erupt (around age 12).
- Children with deep grooves, poor oral hygiene habits, or early signs of enamel breakdown.
Adults:
- Individuals with deep pits and fissures who have never had decay or restorations on those teeth.
- Patients with increased caries risk due to dry mouth, diet, or orthodontic appliances.
Benefits of Pit and Fissure Sealants
- Effective Prevention: Sealants can reduce the risk of molar decay by up to 80 percent.
- Quick and Non-Invasive: The application process is simple, painless, and does not involve drilling or numbing.
- Cost-Effective: Preventing decay with sealants is far less expensive than treating cavities later with fillings, crowns, or root canals.
- Durable Protection: Sealants can last between 5 to 10 years with proper oral care and regular dental visits.
- Ideal for Children and Teens: This age group is particularly vulnerable to decay in the molars, making sealants a proactive choice.
The Sealant Application Process
The procedure is straightforward and usually completed in one visit:
-
Cleaning the Tooth
The dentist or hygienist thoroughly cleans the tooth surface to remove plaque and debris. -
Etching
A mild acidic solution is applied to the chewing surface to roughen the enamel, which helps the sealant adhere more effectively. -
Rinsing and Drying
The tooth is rinsed and dried thoroughly. Isolation is maintained to avoid saliva contamination. -
Applying the Sealant
The sealant material is painted onto the tooth surface, flowing into the grooves and pits. -
Curing
A special curing light is used to harden the sealant, making it durable and resistant to wear. -
Evaluation
The dentist checks the bite and ensures that the sealant has properly bonded to the tooth.
Are Sealants Safe?
Yes, dental sealants are safe. Although some sealants may contain trace amounts of BPA (bisphenol-A), research shows that the levels are extremely low and well within safety margins. In fact, the amount of BPA exposure from sealants is less than that from handling a receipt or using certain plastic containers.
Leading health organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), endorse the use of sealants as an effective and safe preventive treatment.
Caring for Teeth with Sealants
To maximize the lifespan of dental sealants:
- Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine (brushing twice a day and flossing daily).
- Avoid chewing on hard objects such as pens or ice.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Visit your dentist regularly to monitor the condition of the sealants and determine if reapplication is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do sealants replace fluoride treatments?
No. Sealants and fluoride serve different purposes. Fluoride strengthens the enamel on all tooth surfaces, while sealants specifically protect the grooves of the chewing surfaces. Used together, they offer powerful protection against decay.
Can sealants be applied to teeth with early signs of decay?
In some cases, yes. If the decay is minimal and only in the enamel layer, a dentist may still apply a sealant to stop the progression of decay. This is known as a preventive resin restoration (PRR).
Will I feel the sealant after it's applied?
Sealants are very thin and typically not noticeable after application. There may be a slightly different texture for a short period, but this feeling usually fades quickly.
How long do sealants last?
With proper care, sealants can last between 5 and 10 years. Your dentist will check their condition during routine exams and reapply them if needed.
Conclusion
Pit and fissure sealants are a simple yet highly effective preventive measure that can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in both children and adults. By sealing off the vulnerable areas of the teeth, they offer long-lasting protection and help maintain a healthy smile for years to come.