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How Pit and Fissure Sealants Protect Your Teeth from Cavities

What Are Pit and Fissure Sealants?

Pit and fissure sealants are thin, protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Usually, dentists use them on molars and premolars. These teeth have small grooves, called pits and fissures, where food and bacteria can hide. Because brushing may not reach these areas well, sealants help keep teeth safe. Many dental clinics near you offer this simple treatment for children and adults.

How Do Pit and Fissure Sealants Work?

First, the dentist cleans the tooth surface. Then, a special liquid sealant is painted onto the grooves. After that, the sealant quickly hardens, forming a shield over the tooth. As a result, food and germs cannot get trapped in the pits and fissures. This helps prevent tooth decay and cavities. In fact, the CDC reports that dental sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by up to 80%.

Benefits of Pit and Fissure Sealants

Pit and fissure sealants offer many benefits for children and adults. For example, they:

  • Protect teeth from cavities and decay
  • Are quick and painless to apply
  • Last for several years with proper care
  • Save money by reducing the need for fillings
  • Are safe and recommended by dental experts

    • Because sealants act as a barrier, they make it easier to keep teeth healthy.

    Who Should Get Pit and Fissure Sealants?

    Most often, dental sealants for children are recommended. However, adults with healthy molars can also benefit. Dentists suggest sealants for:

  • Children as soon as their permanent molars come in (usually ages 6–12)
  • Teens and adults with deep grooves in their back teeth
  • People at higher risk for tooth decay

    • Even if you brush and floss daily, sealants add extra protection. Therefore, ask your dentist if sealants are right for you or your child.

    The Sealant Application Procedure

    The process for applying pit and fissure sealants is simple and painless. Here is what you can expect:

  • The dentist cleans and dries the tooth.
  • A special gel is placed on the chewing surface for a few seconds.
  • The gel is rinsed off, and the tooth is dried again.
  • The liquid sealant is painted onto the grooves.
  • A blue light may be used to harden the sealant.

    • Usually, the whole process takes only a few minutes per tooth. Most people feel no discomfort during the procedure.

    Aftercare and Longevity

    After getting sealants, you can eat and drink right away. However, it is wise to avoid very sticky or hard foods for the first day. With good care, pit and fissure sealants can last up to 5–10 years. Dentists will check them during regular visits. If a sealant chips or wears away, it can be replaced easily. Brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups help sealants last longer.

    Safety and Side Effects

    Pit and fissure sealants are safe for most people. According to the CDC and dental experts, side effects are rare. Some people may have a mild taste from the sealant material, but this goes away quickly. Allergic reactions are very uncommon. Because sealants are only on the tooth surface, they do not enter the body. If you have concerns, talk to your dentist before treatment.

    Prevention of Tooth Decay with Sealants

    Pit and fissure sealants play a big role in preventing tooth decay. They block food and germs from hiding in the grooves of back teeth. As a result, the risk of cavities drops sharply. The CDC and WHO both recommend sealants, especially for children. Along with brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, sealants help keep your smile healthy for years.

    Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are sealants only for children? No, adults with healthy molars can also get sealants.
  • Do sealants hurt? No, the procedure is quick and painless.
  • How long do sealants last? With care, they can last up to 10 years.
  • Can sealants be placed over small cavities? Sometimes, yes. Dentists may use sealants to stop early decay from getting worse.
  • Are sealants covered by insurance? Many dental plans cover sealants for children. Check with your provider for details.

    • In summary, pit and fissure sealants are a safe, easy way to protect teeth from decay. They work well for both children and adults. Consult your dentist at Apollo Dental to find out if pit and fissure sealants are right for you or your child.