Fissure Sealants:

A fissure sealant is an acrylic material that helps to shield out decay-causing bacteria from the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Sealant material forms a protective barrier by bonding to tooth surfaces and covering natural depressions and grooves (called pits and fissures) in the teeth.  

More than 75 per cent of dental decay begins in the pit and fissure areas of the back teeth.   Combined with proper home care and regular dental visits, sealants are extemely efficient in preventing tooth decay.

The sealant effect can last for many years.   Even though the sealant material is durable, at subsequent dental appointments we make sure the sealant materal is intact.   Occasionally we may need to replace or add a new layer to the sealant material to maintain the effectiveness of the seal.

Though there is no specific age at which sealants are indicated, often we will recommend that the best time is when the six-year-old molars (first permanent molars) appear.

Prior to Sealing

After Sealing

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