Fissures are grooves on the chewing surface of teeth that help chew and grind food. These are the areas where cavities most commonly develop over a lifetime. To prevent cavities, fissure sealing is performed.
What is Fissure Sealing?
Fissure sealing is a preventive measure that helps prevent cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth. It involves filling grooves on the tooth surface with a specific type of material. This method prevents food and bacteria from accumulating in these vulnerable spots.
When is Fissure Sealing Done?
Fissure sealing is most commonly performed on permanent molars (first and second molars). This procedure should be done immediately after the tooth erupts, meaning as soon as the entire chewing surface is visible in the mouth.
The first permanent molars erupt around age 6, while the second molars emerge between the ages of 11 and 13.
What Does Fissure Sealing Involve?
Sealing is a completely painless and very simple procedure. First, the tooth is cleaned with a brush. Then, a sealing material is applied to the tooth in a very thin layer.
This type of material does not interfere with chewing or the further development of the child’s jaw in any way.
