Dental Pit & Fissure Sealants Treatment & Cost

Dental Sealants Treatment
Talk to a Dentist Now!

Dental sealants are applied on the upper surface of the molar tooth to protect it from getting decayed. During the chewing process, the food is chewed majorly through molars and it is difficult to brush this area properly which is results in the pit, fissure, and cavity development on the tooth.

 

This cavity further causes excessive decaying of the tooth. So, pit and fissure sealants are one of the better treatment solutions to treat it. This prevents teeth from getting decayed and remaining in better condition.

Are Dental Sealants necessary?

A dental pit and fissure sealant is a protective layer applied mostly on the molars to prevent tooth decay. Due to the anatomy of molars, the exposed surfaces of the chewing teeth are not properly protected and this results in the formation of pits, fissures, and cavities.

 

These pit and fissure sealants are either white in color or transparent to accomplish the maximum possible natural tooth appearance. The sealants act as a barricade against the most harmful bacteria that may result in the formation of plaque. This procedure is mostly undergone by younger patients just after the eruption of the permanent teeth.

Dental Sealants

How is Sealant applied to the teeth?

The pit fissure sealant procedure is a quick and painless technique that is mostly undergone by patients who are prone to develop pit and fissure caries in their back teeth.

 

These resin sealants require a phosphoric acid etchant to create micro-porosities into which the sealant material can flow to increase retention, surface area and the strength of the bond between the sealant and the tooth surface. Etching time takes around 15 to 60 seconds. After that, the tooth is rinsed and dried thoroughly for 15 to 20 seconds.

 

Chalky appearance on the dried tooth means the tooth has been properly etched.

The sealant is then placed into the prepared pits and fissures of the teeth. The material is left for 10 seconds prior to curing to allow penetration of the sealant material into the pores that are created by the etching procedure.

 

Finally, the sealant is hardened by a curing light, which usually takes 20 to 30 seconds.

Unlike a filling, there is no need for administration of local anaesthesia and no drilling is required.

 

What materials are used for fissure sealants?

There are different types of sealants that are used in a dental fissure treatment procedure. This liquid material is placed on a smooth surface of the tooth and then dried up to form a hard coating over the teeth. The sealants must have less viscosity to let this liquid flow into the pits and fissures of the tooth.

 

Following are the most common types of sealants used-

  • Composite Resin
  • Polyacid modified Resins
  • Resin Modified Glass Ionomers

Teeth sealant cost varies according to the type of sealant.

Dental Sealants

What to expect after undergoing a pit fissure sealant procedure?

After undergoing a pit fissure sealant procedure, it is very important for the patients to keep their teeth clean and maintain healthy oral hygiene. Patients face no difficulty in brushing their teeth as the bristles of the brush can reach all the surfaces of the teeth. The sealant forms a tough shield over the molars that can protect the surface of the teeth from decay.

 

Usually, the pit and fissure sealants last long for about five years or more but in some cases, patients may find sealant coming out within 6 months. Then it would be the best idea to visit a dentist and follow the instructions provided by them. In fact, it is important to visit a dentist frequently for a checkup to make sure that the sealant is in great condition.

pit and fissure sealants

What is the main importance of dental sealants?

Pit and fissure sealant procedure is one of the simplest and the most effective way of preventing tooth decay in children. The procedure provides extra protection to the occlusal surface of chewing teeth and prevents bacterial attack. This dental procedure does not involve any risk and is inexpensive.

 

However, only a few exceptions state that this procedure may include an allergic reaction. Under such situations, it is best to follow the instructions provided by the surgeon.

 

The best part of undergoing a pit and fissure sealant procedure is that it is a permanent procedure. However, to maintain the best of its results, it is very important for the patients to maintain healthy oral hygiene.

 

What post – operative instructions should you follow after placement of Dental Sealants?

Sealants provide long-lasting effect but it is important for each and every patient to follow the post-op instructions provided by the surgeon. These instructions include maintaining healthy oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice daily.

 

The patients must use toothpaste that contains fluoride and also avoid having sugar, chocolates, candies or even chewing gum as that may hamper the sealant. Immediately after undergoing the procedure, the patients may feel uncomfortable for the first few days.

 

How much do dental sealants cost in Mumbai & 5 other cities?

The dental sealant procedure is an easy process that involves the treatment of tooth cavities, pits, and fissures. Dentists can usually execute this simple and pain-free procedure in a dental clinic within a few hours. Patients can go back home on the same day of undergoing the treatment procedure.

 

The exact dental sealant cost cannot be estimated as it depends on the type of sealant used. The overall cost of the procedure depends on a number of factors like the number of teeth to be treated, the type of sealant used, surgeon’s fees and the geographic location of the clinic.

 

It is only a dentist who can calculate the exact cost of the procedure only after diagnosing the condition and incorporating all the patient’s requirements under one treatment plan. Sabka dentist dental clinics provide best dental sealants cost in Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat & Bangalore.

 

How can Sabka Dentist help?

If you are suffering from acute dental problems, then Sabka Dentist is always at your service. In this clinic, you will always be guaranteed with the best dental treatment and post-procedure care. This is because the dentists and staff of the clinic share the same agenda.

  • Get affordable services only at Sabka Dentist- It is the clinic’s choice of providing absolutely affordable dental care treatment plans to their patients. The dentist always provides the right treatment option and clearly explains the patient every single detail about the procedure that they are undergoing. Additionally, the clinic also provides different payment options and zero percent finance for certain treatment procedures.
  • Achieve quality dental care- Anyone looking for a routine dental checkup plan can visit Sabka Dentist for once to relish the best quality dental care procedure. The dentists and staff present in the clinic are handpicked based on their qualifications and years of experience. There is no doubt that Sabka Dentist can provide the best services to individual patients and help them maintain healthy teeth and gum so that each patient can smile with confidence.
  • Excellent patient care- Sabka Dentist prioritizes patient satisfaction, so they treat each patient with customized treatment. The dentists here are no doubt professional, but they do not run after money. They try communicating with each patient and imbibe a sense of positivity within them. The staff tries their best to make the patients feel comfortable and relaxed in every visit. The clinic maintains absolute hygiene standards and encourages a friendly ambiance that makes the patient feel good after undergoing any treatment procedure.
  • Patient confidentiality- Sabka Dentist maintains absolute patient confidentiality on a priority basis and this helps to maintain a long-term relationship with patients.

Expert's Opinion

  • Dr. Reena Waghela Dental Director of Sabka dentist says “Pit & Fissure Sealants are only applied on back teeth i.e. premolars and molars since they have pits and fissures on their biting occlusal surfaces.”
  • Dr. Jena Shah Dental Director for Audit and Compliance at Sabka Dentist says “Application of Pit & Fissure Sealants is a pain free procedure and requires only a few minutes. However, they can have a lasting effect since they form a protective barrier by covering all pits and fissures, where dental decay can start early.”
  • Dr. Zita Antao Dental Director of Sabka dentist advises “An ideal age for your child to receive pit and fissure sealants is between 6 to 7 years of age. The rest are usually sealed as soon as they appear between 11 and 14 years of age.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes fissures on teeth?

Fissures are deep clefts between adjacent cusps of a tooth. They can become the reservoir of microorganisms forming dental plaque, oral debris and reduced enamel epithelium. Thus, they can provide a protected niche for plaque accumulation and decay. Thus, immediately following eruption, sealants should be used.

 

What is the purpose of fissure sealants?

They are introduced into the occlusal pits and fissures of caries susceptible teeth, thus forming a micromechanically bonded, protecting layer cutting access of caries producing bacteria from their source of nutrition.

 

How do you use fissure sealant?

  1. Tray set up with sealant
  2. Teeth Isolation to control moisture and prevent salivary contamination.
  3. Enameloplasty/ Use of slurry of pumice and water/ air abrasion to increase surface area
  4. Acid etching agent is applied to the occlusal tooth surface using etchant applicator. Etching time should not extend beyond 30 seconds.
  5. Rinse and dry the etched tooth surface
  6. Application of bonding agent
  7. Application of sealant
  8. Cure the sealant.
  9. Evaluate the occlusion.

How long do pit and fissure sealants last?

It is known to last for 5 – 10 years. Longevity depends on the type of material of pit and fissure sealants used.

 

Do sealants help prevent cavities?

Sealants are highly effective in preventing cavities, as they form a physical barricade for caries susceptible fissures. However, the ability of a pit and fissure sealant to prevent dental caries is highly dependent on its ability to retain on the tooth surface.

 

What materials are used for fissure sealants?

  • Resin modified glass ionomer sealants: Fourth generation resin based sealants release fluoride, that significantly aid in reducing secondary caries and improving caries resistance.
  • Composite sealants: They are unfilled, light-cured resin material, that fill microcracks, marginal gaps, and also release fluoride.

When to do Pit & Fissure Sealants?

Sealants are often applied as soon as the first permanent teeth start to come through. This is ideally between 6 and 7 years of age. The rest of the teeth can be sealed as soon as they appear/erupt in the oral cavity, which can be any time between 11 and 14 years of age.
 

Are dental sealants BPA free?

BPA (Bisphenol – A) is a xenoestrogen i.e. it mimics the relative bioactivity of estrogen, which is a female sex hormone. BPA derivatives are rarely present in dental sealants. However, at Sabka dentist, we use BPA free pit and fissure sealants.

 

Can sealants come off?

Yes. Sealants can wear off over 5 – 10 years and therefore should be checked at regular dental appointments.

 

Can you eat after sealants?

Food that is hard, sticky or chewy can be damaging. Biting on hard foods like ice, hard candies, etc. can cause the sealants to break. Chewy and sticky foods like gummy candy, caramel, etc. can stick to the sealant and pull them off.

Avoiding these foods will ensure that sealants last longer to provide the best possible protection. In addition to avoiding these foods, maintaining a healthy diet and limiting sugary foods can go long way.

 

Can adults get Pit & Fissure Sealants?

Pit and Fissure Sealants are preventive and not restorative. They are meant for to prevent decay for permanent molars as soon as they erupt into the oral cavity. They are recommended for children and adolescents.

 

What are the different types of sealants?

Some of the common types of the sealants used are:

  • Polyacid modified Resins
  • Composite Resin
  • Resin Modified Glass Ionomers

You can go for any of the types of pit and fissure sealants solution as per budget. It can be influential in avoiding tooth decay making the teeth stay healthy for a longer duration.

About Author

Sabka dentist Clinics