A fissure sealant is a thin, protective coating made from a tooth-coloured resin material. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—the molars and premolars—specifically into the deep grooves (fissures) and small hollows (pits) where decay often begins. Just as every person has a unique physical build, dental anatomy varies significantly between individuals. Some people have naturally deeper pits and fissures, which can make these teeth more susceptible to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria. Our dental practitioners or oral health therapists assess each patient’s teeth to determine if sealants are a suitable preventative measure.

How Sealants Support Oral Health

The deep grooves on the surface of molars can be difficult to clean thoroughly, even with diligent brushing. Bacteria in the mouth interact with dietary sugars to produce acid, which can gradually demineralise tooth enamel and lead to decay.

Fissure sealants act as a physical barrier, ‘sealing’ these grooves to help prevent food particles and plaque from becoming trapped in areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. While sealants are often applied to permanent adult molars as they erupt (typically between the ages of 6 and 12), they can also be an effective preventative tool for adults with deep dental anatomy.

The Application Process

Applying a fissure sealant is a straightforward, clinical process that is typically completed in just a few minutes per tooth. The procedure is non-invasive and does not require the use of local anaesthesia:

1. Clinical Cleaning: The tooth is professionally cleaned to remove any surface debris.
2. Surface Preparation: The tooth is kept dry, and a specialised gel is applied to prepare the enamel for bonding.
3. Application: The tooth is washed and dried before the sealant is applied in liquid form, allowing it to flow into the deepest parts of the fissures.
4. Curing: A concentrated blue light is used to harden the resin into a durable, protective shield.

Longevity and Clinical Review

Fissure sealants are designed to be durable and generally last between 3 and 5 years. During your regular dental examinations, our team will monitor the condition of the sealants. Because they are subject to the wear and tear of daily chewing, they may require maintenance or a ‘top-up’ over time to remain effective.

Important Information: All dental procedures carry risks. A clinical examination is required to determine suitability for fissure sealants. Individual results and the longevity of sealants vary depending on oral hygiene and clinical factors. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries additional risks; before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.