Taking care of your teeth means more than just brushing and flossing. Some parts of our teeth, especially the back teeth, have small grooves that can be difficult to clean. Food and bacteria can get stuck in these grooves and may lead to tooth decay.This is where fissure sealants can help.What are fissure sealants?Fissure sealants are thin coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They cover the deep grooves and help stop food and bacteria from getting trapped.You can think of a sealant as a protective shield for your teeth.Why are they helpful?Back teeth have grooves that a toothbrush may not always clean completely. When bacteria and food build up in these areas, cavities can develop.A fissure sealant makes the surface smoother and easier to clean, helping reduce the risk of tooth decay.Who can get fissure sealants?Fissure sealants are often recommended for children and teenagers, especially when their permanent back teeth first come through.Adults can also benefit from them, particularly if they have deep grooves or are more likely to develop cavities.Is it painful?Not usually. Applying a fissure sealant is a simple and quick procedure.We cleans the tooth, applies the sealant to the grooves, and uses a special light to harden it. There is usually no need for injections, and you can carry on with your day afterwards.Fissure sealants provide extra protection, but they don’t replace brushing and flossing. You should still brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth. Fissure sealants are a simple way to give your teeth extra protection against cavities. If you or your child has deep grooves in the back teeth, talk to your dentist about whether fissure sealants could help.A little extra protection now can help keep your smile healthy for longer.
