Dental Fissure Sealants & Tooth Fissures
What Are Tooth Fissures?
Tooth fissures are the natural grooves and pits found on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, especially molars and premolars. While these grooves help grind food, they can also be quite deep and narrow, making them difficult to clean properly with regular brushing. Because of this, plaque and food particles can easily become trapped, increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities. Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable since their newly erupted permanent teeth often have deeper fissures.
What Are Dental Fissure Sealants?
Dental fissure sealants are a preventive treatment designed to protect these vulnerable grooves. A sealant is a thin, tooth-coloured resin coating that is carefully applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Once hardened, it creates a smooth, protective barrier that shields the enamel from bacteria, plaque, and acids.
Preventative dental treatment, effectively helping protect teeth
The Process of Getting Dental Fissure Sealants
Examination
Cleaning
Isolation
Conditioning
Application
Curing
Evaluation
The process of getting a dental fissure sealant is quick and comfortable, usually taking only a few minutes per tooth. It is a non-invasive procedure that can provide long-lasting protection for your teeth. Our dentists at Amazing Smiles will discuss the benefits and any necessary aftercare instructions with you to help maintain the integrity of the sealant.
Benefits of Dental Fissures
- Decay Prevention: Sealants form a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, keeping food particles, bacteria, and plaque from entering deep grooves, which reduces decay risk.
- Early Intervention: Typically applied to permanent teeth shortly after they erupt, sealants protect vulnerable areas and can eliminate the need for more extensive treatments later.
- Long-lasting Protection: Sealants can last several years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, providing ongoing defence against decay.
- Quick and Painless: Applying sealants is quick and easy and usually does not require drilling or anesthesia, making it comfortable for patients of all ages.
- Cost-effective: Sealants are an economical preventive measure compared to the potential costs of treating cavities and decay.
At Amazing Smiles, our team is skilled in applying dental fissure sealants to help safeguard your teeth. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene are key to maximising their effectiveness.
Book a Check-up for early diagnosis
By booking regular check-ups and cleans, you are taking a proactive approach to preventing dental issues and potentially costly treatments in the future.
Our skilled dentists are committed to providing comprehensive care and ensuring oral health is in the best hands. Invest in your smile and schedule your next check-up and clean with Amazing Smiles today.
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Visit your nearest dentist to treat tooth decay before it worsens
Tooth Decay Stages.
Timely treatment of cavities is essential to prevent additional harm to your teeth and gums. Neglecting cavities can result in tooth loss or the development of gum disease if left unattended.
Enamel Caries
Stage One
Dentin Cavities
Stage Two
Pulpitis
Stage Three
As the cavity advances, it can eventually reach the tooth’s pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. This can lead to intense pain, and it may be necessary to undergo a root canal procedure to preserve the tooth.
Periodontitis
Stage Four
Are dental fissure sealants and dental fillings the same?
Dental fissure sealants and dental fillings are not the same.
Fissure sealants are a preventive measure used on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, protecting them from bacteria and cavities. They are typically applied to children and teenagers, but can also help adults with deep grooves.
In contrast, dental fillings are used to restore teeth that already have decay. The dentist removes the damaged part and fills the cavity with materials like composite resin or amalgam, restoring the tooth’s shape and function.
In short, sealants prevent cavities on healthy teeth, while fillings repair teeth that are already decayed.
Which teeth are most commonly treated with dental fissure sealant?
Permanent molars, found at the back of the mouth, are the teeth most commonly sealed with fissure sealants due to their deep grooves. These grooves make them susceptible to food and plaque buildup, increasing the risk of decay. Fissure sealing is usually recommended for the first and second permanent molars to prevent cavities. However, other teeth with deep grooves may also be considered based on individual oral health and risk factors. Consult your dentist to identify which teeth are suitable for fissure sealing in your case.
How long do dental fissure sealants last?
Dental fissure sealants can last several years, typically between 5 and 10 years, depending on the type used, application quality, and individual oral hygiene. However, their effectiveness may decrease over time, so regular dental check-ups are important for monitoring their condition. Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, can help extend their lifespan.
What problems can come from sealants?
Dental fissure sealants are generally safe and effective, but some potential issues can occur:
- Sealant Wear or Damage: Over time, sealants may wear down or get damaged from chewing or grinding, requiring resealing or repair.
- Sealant Dislodgement: Sealants can become dislodged due to poor bonding or excessive pressure on them.
- Decay in Unsealed Areas: Sealants only protect the areas they cover. If decay occurs in unsealed parts of the tooth, it can still progress.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have rare allergic reactions to sealant materials, so inform your dentist of any allergies.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial to monitor the condition of your sealants and address any issues. Your dentist will inspect the sealants during routine visits and suggest solutions if needed.
What do I do if my fissure sealant breaks or falls off?
If your fissure sealant breaks or falls off, immediately contact your Brisbane or Gold Coast dentist at Amazing Smiles. They will assess the situation and decide if the sealant can be reapplied or repaired.
If a tooth has decay or damage, your dentist may suggest a filling. Don’t delay seeking care to avoid further issues. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor your sealants and ensure they last longer.
What is the cost of a tooth sealant?
The cost of dental sealants varies based on factors like location, complexity, and the number of teeth being sealed. For an accurate assessment, consult your dentist. They can also advise whether a sealant or a dental filling is more appropriate for your situation, as the costs differ.
Some dental insurance plans cover sealants (Item Number 161), so checking with your provider is a good idea. Sealants are also covered under the Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS).
- Item numbers 88161 and 88162.
Dental fissure sealants are usually cheaper than dental fillings since they are preventive treatments for healthy teeth. The procedure involves cleaning the tooth and applying the sealant, while fillings are for damaged teeth and require more extensive work, making them pricier. Remember that costs can vary based on your dentist’s fees, location, and the complexity of the procedure.
Are dental fissures covered by health insurance?
Dental fissures may be covered by private health insurance in Australia, depending on your specific plan.
Dental Fissure Item Numbers (treatments vary based on individual needs):
- 161 Fissure and/or tooth surface sealing – per tooth
At Amazing Smiles, we can help you understand your coverage and how to use it for your dental care. Our team is committed to helping you maximise your insurance benefits for treating dental fissures and improving oral health.
Are dental fissures covered by the child dental benefits scheme?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) in Australia covers dental fissure sealants. This program allows eligible children to access essential dental services, including preventive treatments like fissure sealants, at no cost.
Dental Fissure Item Numbers for CDBS:
- 88161 and 88162 – Sealants must be clinically relevant and indicated.
At Amazing Smiles, we participate in the CDBS to provide quality dental care for children and protect their teeth from decay and cavities.
We accept all major health funds
