What are pit and fissure sealants?

Pit and fissure sealants are clear plastic substances, which protect tooth surfaces, which are more prone to tooth decay from getting affected.

How does the pit and fissure sealants work?

Most often, chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth prone to more amount of decay. This is because these teeth have numerous pits and grooves on it. Even if a child brushes carefully, it is difficult to clean the small grooves and pits, which is present on these teeth. Food debris and bacterial products tend to accumulate on these surfaces making them more prone to decay. Pit and fissure sealants are material introduced to fill these grooves so as to resists the accumulation of food debris within it.

For how long do the sealants last?

Research shows that sealants can last for many years. If a child is capable of maintaining good oral hygiene and can avoid biting hard objects it can retain the sealants for a substantial amount of time.

How are sealants placed?

The procedure for sealant application is painless, quick and simple.

Which are the teeth that are usually sealed?

Though the primary and permanent molars are sealed routinely, any teeth with susceptible grooves and fissures can be sealed as a preventive measure.

After sealant placement does the child have to brush regularly?

Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits are essential even after sealant placement.