Fissure sealing: Prevention of tooth decay
Fissure sealing: Prevention of tooth decay
The cusps and pits located on the chewing surface of the premolars and molars form a fissure system. This is unique to each patient.
As a result, there are certain types of fissures that are unfavorable for preventing tooth decay, as they do not have self-cleaning surfaces and are therefore difficult to clean. Even with proper cleaning, plaque and food residues are often not completely removed. In such cases, cavities frequently develop in the depths of the fissures. Fissure sealing offers a reassuring solution to this problem.
What are the inconveniences and advantages of fissure sealing?
The advantages of fissure sealing:
creates an easily cleanable surface on the tooth instead of a difficult-to-clean one
contributes to the protection of the teeth for many years
a more cost-effective preventive procedure compared to root canal treatments and fillings for cavities
inconveniences of fissure sealing:
Regular dental check-ups every six months are necessary to monitor the condition of the sealant.
The positive attributes of sealant application
Fissure sealing is a simple and painless preventive treatment in which the grooves on the chewing surface of the tooth are sealed with tooth-colored, aesthetic filling material for preventive purposes.
During the treatment, no tooth material is removed; we only roughen the enamel and seal the groove system with a light-curable filling material without disturbing the chewing function. This transforms the difficult-to-clean surface into a more favorable area that is less prone to plaque accumulation.
To these smoother, more even surfaces, bacteria adhere less effectively, thereby positively impacting the oral microflora.
When is the right time for a fissure sealing?
Fissure sealants provide a solution for preventing tooth decay in both primary and permanent teeth, especially for patients with unfavorable fissure types.
In children and young adults, a significant portion of cavities begins in the fissures and pits on the chewing surfaces. During this life stage, these areas are among the most vulnerable parts of the teeth.
Thus, the ideal time for fissure sealing is within 1 year after the teeth erupt.
Specialist's advice
Fissure sealing is a routine procedure that usually does not require anesthesia. I recommend performing this procedure in cases where the fissure system's shape predisposes the patient to future tooth decay. Book an appointment to avoid problems with tooth decay later on!
Dr. Szandra Lemperger, dentist
Fissure sealing application process in 6 simple steps
- The first step of the fissure sealing process is to clean the tooth and then dry it
- Next, we pre-treat the tooth with a special blue liquid
- We apply an adhesive (bond)
- This is followed by the application of the filling material. The material itself can be envisioned as a liquid filling agent that evenly spreads to fill the groove.
- The next step is to illuminate the applied sealant material with a special blue light, causing it to harden.
- As the final step, it is checked to ensure that the sealant does not obstruct the occlusion of the dentition. If there is any suspicion of interference, the material is thinned at the appropriate location and the tooth is polished.
Fissure sealing is a completely trauma-free and painless procedure, causing no discomfort or pain.
Extended fissure sealing
Extended fissure sealing may be necessary if there is already some degree of decay in the grooves. In such cases, simply sealing the grooves with a basic sealant could allow the decay to progress beneath the surface, potentially causing more harm than benefit.
In the case of extended sealant application, the tooth surface is prepared with a small drilling procedure. This allows the grooves to be slightly deepened to remove any decayed tissue. After this, the process for extended fissure sealing is the same as for traditional sealant application.
Fissure sealing in as little as 15 minutes – a small investment for the safety of your teeth
Fissure sealing is a simple and gentle procedure. It takes just 15 minutes per tooth and is not burdensome for the body.
With sealant application, we can work together to prevent tooth decay. Treating already developed decay involves discomfort and expense. Therefore, it is wise to take preventive measures as soon as the teeth erupt.
Fissure sealing price
The cost of sealant application depends on whether a standard or extended procedure is performed. The number of teeth treated also affects the price. The types of sealant costs can be found at the bottom of the page and on the dental pricelist page.
Whether sealant application is necessary for you can only be determined during a personal consultation. Visit Helvetic Clinics for a consultation, and together we can prevent more serious dental issues with a gentle sealant treatment. Call 053 930 1323!
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about fissure sealing
Is fissure sealing recommended for adults?
Fissure sealing is recommended immediately after the teeth erupt. Its significance diminishes over time.
Is drilling necessary during sealant application?
When fissure sealing is done for preventive purposes, no drilling is required. However, for extended sealant application, drilling is necessary to remove decayed tissue.
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