Can a Dental Fissure Sealant Prevent Cavities?

Cavities are one of the most common dental health issues that affect children and adolescents. It is caused by bacteria and plaque building up on the surface of the teeth, producing acids which erode the tooth enamel, creating small holes that eventually lead to tooth decay.

One of the most effective preventive measures against tooth decay is the use of dental fissure sealants. A sealant is a protective plastic coating applied to the pits and fissures of the teeth, particularly on the surface of permanent molars, to prevent the onset and progression of cavities and tooth decay. 

Many parents and individuals are curious about how these sealants work and who can benefit from them. In this article, we will discuss what dental fissure sealants are, how they prevent cavities, and who should consider getting them.

Understanding Dental Fissure Sealants

Fissure sealants are thin, protective plastic layers that are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, notably molars and occasionally premolars. These areas are marked by deep grooves and fissures, making them vulnerable to the accumulation of food particles and bacteria.

Applying a fissure sealant creates a smooth surface that prevents the build of plaque and bacteria, minimising the risk of developing cavities and tooth decay.

Types of Sealants

There are two main types of dental fissure sealants: composite resin and glass ionomer cement (GIC).

Composite Resin Sealants: These sealants are made of a composite material which is strong and resilient, providing lasting protection against cavities. They are designed to match the colour of your teeth, for discretion and aesthetic appeal. Due to their strength, they have a high retention rate. 

Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) Sealants: Glass ionomer sealants are a popular alternative to composite resin sealants as they release fluoride. This helps strengthen tooth enamel and offer extra defence against decay. They are not as strong or resilient as composite resin sealants, however, because of their ability to release fluoride, they are an excellent option for those at increased risk of developing cavities and tooth decay. 

How Fissure Sealants Prevent Cavities

The Science Behind Sealants

Fissure sealants help prevent the development of cavities and tooth decay by providing a protective layer over the surface of your teeth. The process is straightforward yet highly effective:

• Physical Barrier Creation: Sealants create a smooth, protective layer over the teeth, removing any grooves or fissures in which bacteria or plaque can accumulate.
• Bacterial Protection: The tooth enamel is protected from bacteria which means there is less acid production, which is the major cause of cavities and tooth decay.
• Active Defence: Fluoride-releasing ability of glass ionomer cement helps strengthen the enamel and protect the teeth further.

Effectiveness and Longevity

There is a lot of evidence on the efficacy of fissure sealants in preventing cavities:

• High Prevention Rate: Dental sealants are shown to prevent up to 80% of cavities in the first two years, and continue to reduce cavities by 50% for up to four years. With proper care, they can last up to 10 years.
• Retention Rates: Studies suggest up to 85% retention at six months. This rate decreases linearly over time, with approximately 3% failure rate at each six-month check-up.
• Long-Term Protection: Sealants can offer approximately 92% prevention rate of cavities in fully retained sites and 90% in sites with partial retention.
• Regular Maintenance: Despite their durability, sealants are not permanent and are prone to wear and tear. It is important to visit your dentist regularly so that they can assess the condition of the sealant and replace it as necessary. 

Who Should Get Dental Fissure Sealants?

Recommended Age

Dental fissure sealants are recommended for children between 6 and 12 years old, particularly when their permanent molars emerge. This is because newly erupted permanent molars are more prone to decay, given their complex structure and the challenge of cleaning them efficiently. Your dentist will be able to identify the optimal time for sealant application, depending on the child’s dental health and tooth development.

Sealants for Adults

Although dental fissure sealants are commonly associated with children and teenagers, adults with deep fissures or those at increased risk of developing tooth decay can benefit from them, too. This could include patients with poor dental health or those with a family history of tooth decay. 

The sealant can protect the enamel and prevent cavities and tooth decay from developing or progressing. It could also benefit patients with certain medical conditions, for example, diabetes and those on medications causing a dry mouth to reduce the risk of dental health complications. 

Dental fissure sealants are simple and cost-effective. With proper care, they offer a durable solution against cavities and tooth decay, lasting up to 10 years or more, making it a sensible choice for adults seeking long-term cavity prevention.

Dental Sealants Do Protect Teeth

Dental fissure sealants are a highly recommended method for preventing cavities and tooth decay in children and adults. A thin, protective layer is applied directly onto the surface of your teeth to prevent bacteria and plaque from accumulating in the grooves and the fissures of the teeth, particularly the molars.  This helps keep the teeth clean and prevents dental health complications. 

There are different types of fissure sealants and you can speak to your dentist to find which is the most suitable for you. Fissure sealants are strong and robust, providing long-lasting protection from cavities and tooth decay. Speak to your dentist to find out how they can benefit you.