Fissure Sealants in Ilford, Essex

Children's Dentistry » Fissure Sealants

Deep pits and grooves can be found on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Such pits and grooves are termed 'fissures'. These form a favourable environment for bacteria to flourish, often resulting in tooth decay.

What can be done?

Fissure sealants are special materials used by dentists to seal tooth fissures from bacteria to prevent decay from starting deep within the fissures. The most commonly treated teeth are the molars and premolars.

How are sealants applied?

Sealants are applied easily and painlessly. No drilling is required. The tooth is properly cleaned, treated, dried, and the sealant applied. It then hardens to form a protective coating over the tooth.

How effective are sealants and how long can they last?

Sealants can be very effective in preventing decay in fissures. They do, however, require regular maintenance by the dentist. This can be carried out at your child's six- monthly check-up.

When should sealants be put on the teeth?

Sealants are often applied as soon as the first permanent teeth start to come through. This is usually between 6 and 7 years of age. The rest are usually sealed as soon as they appear which can be any time between 11 and 14 years of age.

For more information on our fissure sealants, please call 0208 478 1050 or send us your enquiry online.