Fissure Sealants
Discover a path to a cavity-free smile with the transformative benefits of Fissure sealants at Appin Dental Surgery, where your smile is our top priority. These remarkable protective barriers play a pivotal role in preserving optimal oral health by creating a robust shield against the relentless assault of harmful bacteria and destructive acids.
Fissure sealants act as mighty guardians, filling in pits and grooves to create a smooth, impenetrable surface that inhibits bacteria from settling and thriving. They play a proactive defence role, significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay and minimizing the need for invasive treatments. By preserving the natural structure and integrity of your teeth, sealants ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.

What are Fissure Sealants?
Fissure sealants, also known as dental sealants or pit and fissure sealants, are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars and premolars. Typically recommended for children and teenagers, especially after the eruption of these back teeth, fissure sealants serve as a crucial preventive measure.
By filling in and sealing off deep grooves and fissures, they create a smooth protective barrier, similar to a raincoat shielding the body from rain. This barrier helps prevent the accumulation of bacteria, food particles, and plaque, significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Fissure Sealant Materials | GIC vs. Resin
Fissure sealants can be made of two different materials, depending on the specific needs and circumstances:
Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC): GIC, a tooth-coloured adhesive (plastic) filling, is known for its speedy and uncomplicated placement with fewer steps. It’s suitable for temporary sealants during tooth eruption. However, its strength might be lower, and there’s a possibility of earlier wear or displacement. While more water-tolerant, GIC sealants may permit bacteria underneath.
Resin: Resin sealants, akin to those used in adult dentistry, are tooth-coloured and composed of acrylic. Their placement is more intricate and time-consuming compared to GIC. Studies suggest that resin sealants are more durable and longer-lasting, making them a preferred choice for permanent applications. However, they are less water-tolerant, requiring precise application to avoid restarting the procedure.
The decision between GIC and resin sealants is highly individualized. For rapid placement, especially in younger or less compliant children, GIC may be preferred. Resin sealants, with their longevity, are often chosen for permanent applications, considering the additional steps involved. It’s crucial to evaluate factors such as water tolerance, and the choice may vary depending on the unique circumstances of each patient.
Discover the Remarkable Benefits of Fissure Sealants
Sealants are a simple yet powerful solution to protect your back teeth. By filling minor grooves and fissures, they keep out food and bacteria, effectively preventing decay. Explore the advantages:
- Decay Protection: Sealants act as a barrier, safeguarding vulnerable areas from tooth decay.
- Cavity Prevention: Deep grooves and fissures are sealed, reducing the risk of cavities.
- Effortless Application: The quick and straightforward process takes only a few minutes.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Enjoy the discreet look of white or clear sealants.
- Future Dental Savings: Reduce the need for extensive dental treatments in the future.
- Long-lasting Shield: Experience years of continuous protection.
- Cost-effectiveness: An intelligent investment compared to potential costs of restorative procedures.
For more details, visit Dental Fissure Sealants | healthdirect. Invest in your oral health today for a brighter, worry-free smile tomorrow.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants offer valuable advantages for individuals at various stages of life:
- Children | Protecting Growing Smiles: Fissure sealants are particularly beneficial for children as their permanent molars emerge. These sealants provide essential protection during the formative years, reducing the risk of cavities and fostering optimal oral health.
- Teenagers | Maintaining Healthy Teeth through Adolescence: Adolescents, significantly when their ’12-year molars’ surface, can benefit significantly from sealants. These teeth pose unique cleaning challenges, and sealants act as a protective barrier, ensuring the maintenance of healthy teeth throughout the teenage years.
- Adults with Deep Grooves or Susceptible to Tooth Decay: Adults with deep grooves or increased susceptibility to tooth decay, whether due to genetics, diet, or oral hygiene habits, find value in dental sealants. Sealants provide an additional preventive measure for those who may struggle with proper cleaning.
- Individuals with a History of Dental Cavities: For those with a history of dental cavities, dental sealants offer a proactive approach to protect teeth and prevent the recurrence of decay.
Determining Eligibility for Fissure Sealants | A Comprehensive Assessment
Assessing eligibility for fissure sealants involves a careful evaluation of specific factors:
- Tooth Anatomy: Fissure sealants are most effective on teeth with deep pits and grooves. Dental professionals assess tooth anatomy to ensure the sealant can adequately fill and seal vulnerable areas.
- Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, are vital for healthy teeth and gums. Candidates for sealants should demonstrate a commitment to oral hygiene, recognizing that sealants complement rather than substitute proper dental care.
- Existing Dental Conditions: Typically applied to healthy teeth without decay or restorations, fissure sealants may not be suitable for individuals with extensive dental work or active cavities. Alternative dental treatments might be recommended based on individual circumstances.
- Individual Risk Factors: Dental professionals evaluate an individual’s risk of developing cavities by considering factors such as diet, oral hygiene habits, fluoride exposure, and overall oral health history.
Through this comprehensive assessment, our dental professionals can determine the suitability of fissure sealants for each individual. The outcome guides personalized recommendations, ensuring an optimal approach to preventive dental care tailored to specific needs.

Fissure Sealant Process | Your Comfortable Experience at Appin Dental Surgery
At Appin Dental Surgery, we prioritize your comfort and oral health. Applying fissure sealants is a straightforward and painless procedure crafted to enhance your well-being. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect during your visit:
Tooth Preparation and Isolation
- We commence by delicately cleaning and drying the tooth surface.
- To maintain an optimal environment, we isolate the tooth with precision.
Acid Etching and Rinse
- A gentle acidic solution is applied to create micro-pores in the enamel.
- Thorough rinsing with water follows to ensure the removal of the acid-etching solution.
Sealant Application and Material Adaptation
- Our skilled team applies the sealant material with care, focusing on the deep grooves and fissures of your tooth.
- We pay meticulous attention to ensure complete coverage, adapting the material to the unique contours of your tooth.
Curing and Occlusion Check
- Utilizing a curing light, we efficiently harden the sealant material.
- A comprehensive check of your bite and occlusion follows to guarantee a comfortable fit.
The entire process is designed to be painless and typically does not require anesthesia or drilling. Before your appointment, we will provide any necessary instructions for preparation. Following the procedure, we’ll guide you on post-procedure care to maximize the effectiveness of your fissure sealants.
Ensuring the Longevity of Fissure Sealants | Top Maintenance Guidelines
Fissure sealants are a valuable preventive dental treatment that helps protect teeth from decay by sealing the deep grooves and fissures on the chewing surfaces. While fissure sealants are highly effective, their longevity depends on proper maintenance. Here are some essential tips to ensure the longevity of fissure sealants:
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule routine dental check-ups to detect early signs of wear or damage to fissure sealants.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing and flossing, to prevent plaque buildup.
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Steer clear of chewing on hard objects to prevent the wearing off or chipping of sealants.
- Limit Sticky and Sugary Foods: Reduce intake of sticky and sugary foods to minimize plaque formation and decay risk.
- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the sealants during brushing.
- Monitor for Wear: Keep an eye out for signs of wear, chipping, or loss of sealant material, and consult a dentist if any issues arise.
- Address Grinding or Clenching: If teeth grinding or clenching is a habit, discuss options with a dentist to protect both sealants and natural teeth.
- Prompt Repairs/Replacements: Address any issues identified during check-ups promptly, following the dentist’s recommendations for repairs or replacements.
- Update Sealants: Consider updating or reapplying sealants as needed over time, particularly in high-risk areas.
Considerations and Important Points about Dental Sealants
Dental sealants, akin to raincoats for your teeth, provide a valuable shield against disease-causing bacteria, minimizing the risk of cavities. While not foolproof, they offer optimal opportunities for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Considerations to Keep in Mind
- Limited Lifespan:
- Dental sealants typically last around five years.
- Regular dental check-ups are crucial to assess their condition and plan for potential replacements.
- Applicability to Specific Teeth:
- Sealants are designed for healthy teeth and cannot be applied to those with existing decay or fillings.
- Crucial Placement:
- Proper placement is essential for effectiveness.
- Precision during application is critical to avoid inadvertently sealing in bacteria, which could lead to cavity development.
Understanding these considerations ensures that you make informed decisions about the application and maintenance of dental sealants for lasting oral health.
Why Choose Appin Dental Surgery for Fissure Sealants
Discover the Appin Dental Surgery difference when it comes to Fissure Sealants. Our commitment to comprehensive preventive care is driven by advanced expertise and a patient-centred approach. We specialize in a wide range of services, including Fissure Sealants, with a clear goal – to reduce the risk of tooth decay and minimize the need for extensive treatments.
At Appin Dental Surgery, we prioritize your comfort and well-being. Our welcoming environment ensures a positive experience during sealant application. We believe in empowering our patients through education providing the knowledge and tools needed for optimal oral health.
Ready to experience exceptional care tailored to your needs? Schedule an appointment with Appin Dental Surgery today and embark on a journey towards lasting oral health.
"Had a great experience at Appin Dental Surgery! Dr Gurinder Matharu is absolutely wonderful! Very lovely, nice, well-spoken, caring and attentive! Felt so comfortable! She would be fantastic if you have any anxieties or kids with anxieties. Cannot recommend her enough!"
Brittany C
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the application of fissure sealants painful?
No, the application of fissure sealants is a painless and non-invasive procedure. It involves cleaning and drying the teeth, applying an adhesive material, and then placing the sealant on the chewing surfaces. There is no need for anaesthesia or drilling during the process.
Do I still need to brush and floss my teeth if I have fissure sealants?
Yes, even with fissure sealants, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices. Fissure sealants protect the chewing surfaces of the teeth, but they do not cover the entire tooth or prevent decay in other areas. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings are still necessary to maintain overall oral health.
Are fissure sealants common in children's dentistry?
Yes, fissure sealants are common in children’s dentistry. They are also widely used in adult dentistry. Fissure sealants, also known as pit and fissure sealants, have been in existence since the 1970s.
In children’s dentistry, fissure sealants are recommended for children who are at a high risk of developing decay in the pits and fissures of their teeth. Children often make it challenging for parents or dentists to thoroughly examine their mouths, emphasizing the importance of using fissure sealants to prevent decay.
Are fissure sealants done all at once, or tooth by tooth?
The approach to applying fissure sealants can vary depending on the individual case. Generally, if a child can handle the treatment, it is recommended to have all the sealants applied in one appointment. However, if a child has difficulty sitting still or is young, the sealants may be applied tooth by tooth, starting with the highest-risk teeth first. Additionally, for young children with a high risk of decay, each tooth will be sealed as soon as it erupts and becomes visible in the mouth.
Can fissure sealants be applied to teeth with existing cavities?
Fissure sealants are not suitable for teeth with existing cavities or decay. It is crucial to address any existing dental issues before considering the application of fissure sealants. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your teeth and recommend appropriate treatments as necessary.
Are tooth sealants only applied to molars, or can they be used on other teeth as well?
Fissure sealants are most commonly applied to molar teeth, but they can also be placed on any tooth that has a pit or fissure. Lateral incisors, for example, often have deep grooves that are prone to decay if left unsealed. Therefore, sealants can be used on a variety of teeth, depending on the specific dental characteristics and risk factors.
Do dental sealants require special care?
Dental sealants do not require any special care. However, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is essential. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings will help ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the sealants.
Can dental sealants be removed?
Dental sealants are designed to be long-lasting and durable. While they can be removed if necessary, it is generally not recommended to remove them unless there is a specific reason, such as repair or replacement due to wear or damage.
Does the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) Cover Dental Sealants?
Yes, dental sealants are indeed covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) program. This means that eligible children can receive dental sealants as a preventive treatment without incurring any out-of-pocket expenses. Appin Dental Surgery is proud to participate in the CDBS program and accepts CDBS coverage for dental sealants.
Fissure Sealants in Wollondilly
Protect your teeth with Fissure Sealants at Appin Dental Surgery. Our experienced team offers comprehensive preventive care for a healthier smile. Schedule an appointment today to take proactive steps towards optimal oral health.
Contact us at (02) 9068 1369 or conveniently book online.