Fissure Sealants

What Are Dental Fissures?

Dental fissures are natural grooves, cracks, or pits that appear on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These fissures can either be harmless or become problematic when they deepen and allow bacteria to accumulate, leading to tooth decay or fractures.

Types of Dental Fissures

There are two main types of dental fissures:

1. External Fissures: These affect only the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth. While they do not cause immediate pain, they can become entry points for bacteria, increasing the risk of decay.
2. Internal Fissures: These penetrate deeper into the tooth, affecting the dentin or even reaching the nerve. Internal fissures can cause significant pain and may require root canal treatment or, in severe cases, tooth extraction.

Causes of Dental Fissures

Dental fissures can develop due to various factors, including:

• Chewing Hard Foods: Biting on hard foods such as ice or hard candies can cause micro-cracks in teeth.
• Sudden Temperature Changes: Extreme temperature fluctuations from hot and cold foods can weaken enamel and lead to fissures.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Constant grinding exerts excessive pressure on teeth, wearing down their surface and making them prone to fissures.
• Oral Trauma: Accidents or blows to the mouth can cause fractures and fissures, especially if the tooth is already weakened by prior dental work.

Symptoms of Dental Fissures

If you have a fissure in your tooth, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Gum inflammation around the affected tooth.
• Pain when chewing, especially when pressure is applied.
• Intermittent pain that may come and go without a clear cause.

Diagnosing Dental Fissures

Dentists use various methods to identify dental fissures and determine their severity:

• Visual Examination: Dentists use magnifying lenses and dental probes to inspect fissures on the tooth surface.
• Dental Dye: A special dye is applied to highlight fissures, making them more visible.
• X-Rays: While fissures may not always appear on X-rays, they help assess the overall health of the tooth and detect any underlying damage.

What Are Fissure Sealants?

Fissure sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to protect them from decay. These sealants fill in deep grooves and pits, preventing food particles and bacteria from getting trapped and causing cavities.

Key Features of Fissure Sealants:

• Transparent or tooth-colored for a natural appearance.
• Non-invasive and painless application.
• Long-lasting protection (up to 10 years).
• Most effective when applied to newly erupted permanent teeth.

How Do Fissure Sealants Work?

Fissure sealants create a smooth, protective barrier over the deep grooves of teeth, preventing bacteria and food debris from accumulating.

The Science Behind Fissure Sealants:

• The sealant bonds to the tooth surface and hardens, forming a durable shield.
• It prevents bacteria and plaque from settling in deep grooves.
• Even if a small amount of decay is present, sealants can slow its progression.

Benefits of Fissure Sealants

Fissure sealants are an essential preventive measure in dentistry, offering several key benefits:

1. Prevents Cavities

Sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay by up to 80% in molars, making them highly effective in preventing cavities.

2. Cost-Effective

Compared to the cost of treating cavities, fissure sealants are an affordable option that can save money in the long run.

3. Painless and Non-Invasive

The procedure is quick, painless, and does not require drilling or anesthesia, making it an ideal option for children and adults.

4. Long-Lasting Protection

With proper care, sealants can last up to a decade, offering extended protection against decay.

5. Safe for Children and Adults

Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers, but adults can also get them if their teeth are cavity-free.

Who Needs Fissure Sealants?

Fissure sealants are recommended for:

• Children and teenagers (especially after their permanent molars erupt).
• Adults with deep grooves in their teeth.
• People at high risk of cavities.

Best Age for Sealant Application

• 6 to 7 years old (first permanent molars).
• 12 to 14 years old (second permanent molars).

Fissure Sealant Procedure

Applying fissure sealants is a simple, quick, and painless procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Cleaning the Tooth – The dentist cleans and dries the tooth to remove any debris.
2. Preparing the Surface – A special solution is applied to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
3. Applying the Sealant – The sealant is painted onto the tooth’s surface.
4. Curing the Sealant – A special curing light hardens the sealant.
5. Final Check – The dentist ensures the sealant is properly bonded.

Conclusion

Fissures in dentistry, whether natural grooves or cracks, can lead to various dental issues. Preventive care, such as fissure sealants, can help protect teeth from decay and maintain long-term oral health. If you have deep fissures or are experiencing symptoms of a cracked tooth, visiting a dentist early can help prevent further complications.