Sealants

Fissure sealants are a protective plastic coating on the tooth, which helps to protect your child’s back teeth from cavities. The coating is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth since these teeth are at the most at risk for decay. Our back molars contain small grooves known as fissures on the chewing surfaces, which often extend right down to the tooth itself. Even with proper brushing, it can be difficult to completely remove food particles from these small grooves. Fissure sealants will help to completely seal off these grooves, preventing food particles and bacteria from getting in without affecting the normal chewing function of teeth.

How it’s done:

Before applying the sealant, Dr. Sharma will inspect each fissure for decay. After your tooth has been cleared of any decay, it’s a pretty simple process. The tooth will be prepared with a special solution and Dr. Sharma will apply the coating. There are no injections or drilling needed, so most children are completely cooperative. The entire process is pain-free and it will save your child from the pain of a cavity later on.

When should my child receive sealants?

Sealants are recommended once the first permanent back molar appears, which is typically around the age of 6 or 7. If required, the rest of the molars are usually sealed as soon as they appear, which is anytime between 11 and 14 years of age.