Tooth decay prevention is vital for the future of your child’s teeth
Maintaining the health of your child’s teeth is extremely important as it plays a very important role later in life.
What are Fissure Sealants?
Fissure sealants are created from a composite resin that is either white or clear. They are painted into the grooves on the back teeth (also known as molars and premolars). Since the grooves are too deep for a toothbrush to get access to, the area is often prone to tooth decay.
Permanent molars tend to start to erupt around the age of 6. It is recommended that fissure sealants are applied straight after they start coming through. At that age, the molars are very prone to decay.
Process of applying Fissure Sealants
Appling Fissure Sealants is often a simple and painless procedure. The process includes:
- The dentist will thoroughly clean the back teeth, including removing bacteria from the grooves and fissures.
- The liquid resin is applied and flows into the groove and fissure area of the tooth.
- An ultra violet light is used to set the resin. The molars are now sealed and prevent any tooth decay from occurring.
Post procedure, the dentist will sit down to discuss and give advice on foods to avoid and ways to protect your oral hygiene.
Fissure sealants are not a permanent option as they can lift off the tooth or fall off. As a result of this, the sealants will be regularly monitored at every appointment ensuring they are still protecting the molars from decay.
Benefits of Fissure Sealants for Children
How you look after your child’s teeth can often have an impact on their teeth later in life. Fissure sealants are excellent for preserving them and reducing the risk of decay in the future. Other benefits include:
- They are inexpensive
- Prevents cavities
- Assists with improving the strength of the teeth as they grow
- Delays the need for fillings as the sealants tend to last for around 5-10 years.
- No need for removal of tooth structure and no anaesthetic is needed.
Looking for that early protection from decay for your child’s back teeth? Contact our team to book your child in for their fissure sealants today.