I have heard about fissure sealants. What are they?
A fissure sealant is placed in crevices of (primarily) molars in order to prevent food stagnating in these pits. The pits/crevices are often too deep and too narrow for a toothbrush to get into. Sealing these pits and forming a smooth, flat surface enables easier and more effective tooth cleaning. It is imperative, though, that sealants only be placed in clean fissures – once there is any stickiness, staining or decay, the tooth cannot be sealed. Fissure sealants do not last forever – they (like fillings) can chip, crack and erode over time, requiring replacing. They are, though, much easier to place as there is no drilling/ tooth removal required – ideal for children.
