We specialise in turning the tide against tooth decay with our expert fissure sealant treatments. Our friendly and professional team uses this simple yet effective preventive measure to safeguard your teeth from decay before it starts. Trust us to provide compassionate care that seals the deal for a healthier smile, keeping those hard-to-clean grooves protected and your dental health in top condition.
What are Fissure Sealants?
Fissure sealants are a simple way to keep your teeth safe from cavities. Think of them as a protective shield. Like molars and premolars, your back teeth have tiny grooves and dips that are hard to clean, making them a favourite spot for food bits and germs to hide. Sealants are clear, plastic coatings that fill in these tiny grooves on your teeth.
Once applied, they stop food and germs from getting in, making your teeth much easier to clean. It’s a quick, pain-free process that’s really effective, especially for kids and teens, in stopping cavities before they start. With fissure sealants, you’re taking a big step towards keeping your teeth healthy and cavity-free.
What are the benefits of dental fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants offer several key benefits that make them essential to dental care. Firstly, they act as a protective shield for your teeth, effectively blocking out bacteria and food particles that lead to decay. This is especially important for the grooves and dips in your back teeth, which are difficult to clean thoroughly with brushing alone.
The application process is straightforward, non-invasive, and pain-free, making it an ideal preventive measure for all ages, particularly for children and teenagers who are more susceptible to cavities.
Sealants also provide long-lasting protection, potentially saving time and money on future dental treatments. By choosing fissure sealants, you’re investing in a proactive approach to maintaining oral health and preserving your natural teeth.
Fissure Sealant FAQs
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What exactly are fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars) to prevent cavities. They fill in the grooves and pits where food and bacteria often get trapped. -
Who should get fissure sealants?
While sealants are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers as soon as their permanent back teeth come in, adults at risk of decay can also benefit from them. They're a preventive measure for anyone looking to protect their teeth from cavities. -
Are fissure sealants safe?
Absolutely. Fissure sealants are safe and effective. They've been used for decades to protect teeth from decay. The procedure is non-invasive, with no drilling or removal of tooth structure required. -
How long do fissure sealants last?
With proper care, fissure sealants can last for several years. Regular dental check-ups are important, as your dentist can check the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary. -
Is the application of fissure sealants painful?
Not at all. The process is quick and painless. It involves cleaning the tooth and bonding the sealant onto the surface, which doesn't cause discomfort. -
How do I care for my teeth after getting fissure sealants?
Continue your regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice daily and flossing daily. While sealants protect the surfaces they cover, maintaining oral health is still essential. -
Can sealants be applied over cavities?
Sealants are meant for the preventive care of healthy teeth. If a tooth has a cavity or decay, it will need to be treated before considering the application of a sealant. -
When should I have a fissure sealant applied?
Fissure sealants are most effective when applied soon after the molars and premolars erupt. For children, this typically means around the ages of 6 for the first molars and 12 for the second molars. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants. The key is to apply them before decay has a chance to start. -
How successful are fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants are highly successful in preventing tooth decay on the biting surfaces of chewing teeth. Studies have shown that sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in molars, with effectiveness lasting for years after application. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the sealants' condition and reapply them if necessary. -
How is a fissure sealant applied?
The application of a fissure sealant is a simple, pain-free process: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque or food particles. The tooth is then dried, and a slightly acidic solution is applied to roughen the surface for better bonding. The tooth is rinsed and dried again. The sealant material is then applied to the tooth's surface, which flows into the fissures and grooves. The sealant is hardened using a special light to bond it to the tooth, creating a protective shield.
How can fissure sealants help?
Fissure sealants help by creating a smooth, protective barrier over the natural grooves and fissures in the teeth, making it difficult for plaque and food particles to accumulate and cause decay. This barrier helps prevent cavities and makes it easier to clean the teeth with regular brushing, contributing to overall oral health. By targeting these vulnerable areas, fissure sealants play a crucial role in preventive dental care, especially for children and teenagers prone to cavities.
Protect your teeth at Aesthetique Dental Care
Elevate your dental health with the protective power of fissure sealants. Our team at Aesthetique Dental Care is ready to guide you through this simple yet effective treatment to safeguard your teeth against decay. Don’t wait for cavities to form; take a proactive step towards a healthier smile today. Contact our private dental clinic in Leeds to learn how fissure sealants can benefit your and your family’s oral health.
Visiting the practice
Aesthetique Dental Care 21 Wharf Street, The Calls Leeds West Yorkshire LS2 7EQ
We’re in the heart of Leeds - accessed by bus and train and have convenient on street parking.
Dental Design | Site last updated: November 2024 