Fissure Sealant
What Is a Fissure Sealant
Dental fissure sealants are a preventive dental treatment offered by many Perth Dentists designed to protect the teeth, typically the back molars, from decay. Fissure sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing and biting surfaces of the teeth. They create a shield over the deep grooves and small fissures that naturally exist in tooth structure.
These areas, particularly on molar teeth, can be challenging to clean with toothbrush bristles and are prone to developing cavities.
How Do Fissure Sealants Work?
A fissure sealant is a liquid sealant carefully applied to the chewing teeth to prevent tooth decay. This non-invasive procedure involves cleaning the tooth, applying the sealant to the pits and fissures, and then hardening it with a special light. Fissure sealants protect the tiny grooves that even diligent brushing can miss, improving oral health.
The Process of Tooth Decay
Dental decay is a common dental issue that develops over time. Dental decay may begin when food debris, particularly from sugary and acidic foods, collects on the teeth. Bacteria in the mouth feed on these particles, creating an acidic by-product that wears away at the tooth’s protective layer, leading to cavities. Regular dental check-ups, a healthy diet, fluoride toothpaste, other dental treatments, and preventive measures like fissure sealants can all help limit future decay.
Benefits and Risks of Fissure Sealants
Fissure sealants offer numerous benefits. They’re a cost-effective way to prevent cavities and reduce tooth decay. The procedure is painless, does not require local anaesthesia, and can be completed by a dental practitioner such as a dentist, dental hygienist, or oral health therapist. Fissure sealants last several years but may need to be reapplied over time. Despite these advantages, there can be minimal risks, such as an allergic reaction to the sealant material, though this is extremely rare.
Which Teeth Should Be Sealed?
While any tooth with pits and fissures can benefit from sealants, like lateral incisors, the back teeth (the molars and premolars) are most commonly fissure sealed. Back teeth have deeper grooves and are used mostly for chewing, making them more susceptible to decay.
Is A Fissure Sealant Used for Adult Teeth or Children’s Teeth?
Both adult teeth and a child’s molars can be sealed. The first permanent teeth, particularly the first molar teeth, are often sealed to prevent cavities in children.
What Happens During a Dental Fissure Sealant Procedure?
The fissure sealant procedure is a straightforward and painless procedure. The dental practitioner first cleans the tooth surface to remove any food debris. Then, the sealant is applied to the tooth’s chewing surfaces of the molars. The sealant flows into the deep grooves and pits of the tooth, and then it’s hardened with a special light. The dentist will ensure the patient’s bite is normal and remove excess sealant.
The result is a smooth, protective layer that keeps food and bacteria from settling into the fissures of the tooth.
Post-Sealant Application
Caring for your teeth post-sealant application is essential to maintain their health and longevity. Here are a few key points to remember:
Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing your teeth thoroughly twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the areas covered by the sealants, ensuring they are cleaned properly.
Flossing: Regular flossing is important to clean between your teeth and along the gumline. While the sealants cover the chewing surfaces, they do not protect the areas between teeth.
Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet low in sugary foods and drinks. Limit your consumption of sticky or hard foods that may put excessive pressure on the sealants.
Regular Check-Ups: Schedule routine dental check-ups to ensure the sealants are intact and functioning effectively. Your dentist will examine the sealants during these visits and make any necessary repairs or reapplications.
Remember, oral care and regular dental visits are essential for oral health, even after sealant application.
When Might Someone Need Fissure Sealants?
At our dental clinic in South Perth, fissure sealants are often recommended once a child’s first permanent molars appear, usually around the age of six. However, adults with deep grooves in their teeth, especially those with a history of tooth decay or at high risk for cavities, might also benefit from this protective treatment. Regular check-ups with our dentist can help determine if fissure sealants are suitable for you or your child.
Fissure Sealants and Children’s Dental Health
Fissure sealants are particularly beneficial for your child’s teeth. Here is why dental sealants are essential in paediatric dental care: Children’s newly erupted permanent teeth may be less decay-resistant than adult teeth. Sealants can keep these teeth healthy.
Children sometimes do not brush their teeth thoroughly, leaving food and plaque on their teeth. By having fissure sealants applied, paediatric dentists can protect these vulnerable areas.
By preventing tooth decay in children, sealants can help avoid early tooth loss and potential orthodontic treatment.
How Long Do Fissure Sealants Last?
The longevity of fissure sealants can vary depending on various factors, including the material used, oral hygiene practices, chewing habits, and the condition of the sealants over time. On average, fissure sealants can last for several years. However, it’s important to note that they are not permanent solutions. Over time, sealants may wear down or chip, requiring touch-ups or replacement. Regular dental visits are essential to monitor the condition of the sealants and determine if any repairs or reapplications are necessary. By practising proper dental care and avoiding habits that can place excessive pressure on the sealants, such as chewing on hard objects, you can help extend their lifespan.
Fissure Sealants Cost
The cost of fissure sealant treatment in Australia can range from around AUD $40 to $100 per tooth. Prices may vary depending on the dental clinic and any additional treatments required. Please contact your dentist for more accurate information on the prices.
Schedule Your Fissure Sealant Treatment at Acts Dental in Perth
Are you looking for affordable fissure sealant treatments? Acts Dental in Perth is here to help! We accept various health funds, including Bupa, Medibank, HBF, HCF and NIB. Take advantage of your health insurance coverage and prioritise your oral health with our expert oral care.
Why Choose Acts Dental for Fissure Sealants?
Expert Dentists: Our experienced dentists specialise in the precise application of fissure sealants, providing effective protection against tooth decay.
State-of-the-Art Facility: At Acts Dental, we utilise advanced dental technology and maintain a modern facility to ensure comfortable and efficient treatments for our patients.
Comprehensive Preventive Care: Fissure sealants are part of our commitment to preventive dentistry. We offer a comprehensive range of oral health services to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Hassle-Free Claims: We are preferred provider with Bupa, Medibank, HBF, HCF, NIB, and other health funds, we strive to make the claims process seamless and convenient for our patients.
Schedule your fissure sealant treatment at Acts Dental today by calling us at (08) 9474 5083. Our friendly team will guide you through the process and help you maximise your health fund benefits. Invest in the long-term health of your smile with affordable fissure sealant treatments. Remember, a brilliant smile starts with preventive care!
