Pit and fissure sealants are a preventive dental treatment designed to protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—especially the molars and premolars—from tooth decay. These surfaces have natural grooves, pits, and fissures where food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped, making them more vulnerable to cavities.

Purpose

• To seal deep grooves in teeth where brushing may not clean effectively

• To prevent cavities before they form

• To maintain long-term oral health, especially in children and teenagers

Procedure

1. Cleaning the Tooth: The tooth surface is cleaned thoroughly to remove any debris.

2. Acid Etching: A mild acidic solution is applied to roughen the tooth surface so the sealant can bond properly.

3. Sealant Application: A thin, protective coating of resin is painted onto the tooth surface.

4. Curing: The material is hardened using a special curing light.

Benefits

• Non-invasive and painless procedure

• Provides a protective barrier against bacteria and acids

• Cost-effective preventive measure compared to fillings

• Can last for several years with proper oral hygiene

Ideal Candidates

• Children and teenagers with newly erupted permanent molars

• Adults at risk of tooth decay or with deep fissures in their teeth