Deep pits and grooves can be found on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.
fissure sealants and how they work
Deep pits and grooves can be found on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Such pits and grooves are termed ‘fissures’ and are usually so narrow that toothbrush bristles and streams of water are not able to clean them effectively. These form a favourable environment for bacteria to flourish, often resulting in tooth decay.
Fissure sealants can be applied to the teeth. Fissure sealants are special materials used by dentists to seal off pits and fissures from the oral environment. Sealing the tooth surface protects fissures from bacteria and fermentable foods like sugar and starches to prevent decay from starting deep within the fissures. Any tooth with pits and fissures can be treated, provided the surface to be filled is sound and has not been previously filled. The most commonly treated teeth are the molars.
The pros and cons of fissure sealants
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions and enquiries about fissure sealants here and get clarification for important information and potential concerns you may have.
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 long do sealants last?
Recent studies show that a properly placed sealant will last as long as a typical amalgam filling. Even if a sealant is damaged or lost, it is easily repaired and replaced. Regular maintenance by your dentist will help them last.
Do sealants need regular checkups?
Many studies show sealants to be very effective in preventing decay in fissures. They do, however, require regular maintenance by your dentist. This can be performed with your six- monthly check-up.
What our patients say
“We have been with our previous dentist for 37 years but the changes over recent years forced us to change. We chose Alvington House and could not be more pleased. Wish we had moved years ago! The organisation is professional and the care is calm and experienced. I hope we will be around for another 37 years with Alvington. Thank you to Mr Nigel Slattery and Sarah.”
Sheila Burke.
“As a private patient with the practice, I could not be happier with the service I’ve received in the short time I’ve been coming here. Mr Soares is an absolute asset to the practice and made me feel heard from the get go. Which, for someone with anxiety over dental related anything, is a definite plus. Highly recommend this practice if you’ve the finances for private care.”
Rick Cole.
“Fantastic practice and people. On top of routine check-ups, Joel did teeth whitening and a crown for my front tooth that previously had root canal and filling. I’m so happy with the results and feel like I can smile properly again for the first time in years.”
Evan Doble.
“Being a very nervous dental patient, the prospect of a molar extraction was very daunting. I was seen on the same day as I phoned in in pain and my tooth was taken out within two days. Mr Surti was brilliant! I was amazed at how easy and painless it was compared to my awful childhood experiences. Very calm and professional and made every effort to squeeze me in as soon as possible. All the staff were brilliant. I highly recommend this dental practice and especially Mr Surti.”
JoJo.
“Alvington House has been our family’s dentist for several years now and we have no complaints. Our dentist, Mr Surti, is kind and knowledgeable. The receptionists and dental nurses are top notch. Highly recommended dental practice.”
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