Dental fissure seals are an essential part of dental care. They help prevent tooth decay and protect your teeth from cavities. But what are they, exactly? And what can you expect during the procedure? Here’s everything you need to know about fissure seals.
1. What are fissure seals, and what do they do
Dental fissure seals are specialised dental treatments that help to prevent tooth decay. The therapy involves sealing the deep crevices in the teeth, known as fissures, with a thin layer of resin. This helps create a barrier between the tooth and food or drink, which can contain acids that cause tooth decay. Fissure sealing is often recommended for children as it can help to protect their teeth from decay. The treatment is also usually carried out on adults with deep teeth fissures. Dental fissure seals can help to prevent tooth decay and keep your teeth healthy for years to come.
2. Who should get fissure seals
Fissure sealants are most effective in children and adolescents, as their teeth are more likely to have deep fissures. However, adults can also benefit from the treatment, especially if they have had previous cavities in their back teeth. If you are worried about tooth decay, talk to your dentist about whether fissure sealants suit you.
3. How are fissure seals done
Your dentist or orthodontist typically does fissure seals. The sealant material is put into your teeth’ fissures (grooves) to help fill them in and prevent food, plaque and tartar from building up in them. Fissure seals are often done on the back teeth (molars), where the grooves are deeper and more likely to trap food and plaque. Sealing these back teeth can help prevent tooth decay. The sealant material is a plastic resin that bonds to the tooth enamel. It is clear or white, so it is not very noticeable. Fissure seals can last for several years before they need to be replaced.
4. What to expect after getting fissure seals
After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. However, this is usually temporary and will resolve within a few days. You should also avoid chewing hard foods for the first 24 hours after the procedure. Otherwise, there are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink—brushing and flossing regularly after dental fissure seals to keep your teeth healthy and prevent decay.
5. How long do they last
Dental fissure seals can last for many years, depending on how well they are taken care of. Generally, it is recommended that patients have their seals checked every six months to ensure that they are still in good condition. Over time, the sealant material can wear down, exposing the tooth to decay-causing bacteria. In addition, the sealant can also become stained or discoloured, making it less effective at protecting the tooth. To prolong the life of dental fissure seals, patients should avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can damage the sealant and brush and floss regularly to remove plaque buildup. With proper care, dental fissure seals can help protect teeth from decay for many years.
Dental fissure seals at Robelle Dental Centre Australia
Sealants are a great way to protect your teeth from cavities. If you have questions about dental fissure seals or want to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact Robelle Dental Centre today. We would be happy to help you keep your smile healthy and cavity-free!
