Pit and Fissure Sealant: a great investment! Imagine a world where tooth decay is rare, where children and adults can enjoy healthy teeth throughout their lives, with fewer visits to the dentist for repairs.
This world doesn't have to be a utopia, and one of the steps towards achieving it lies in using pit and fissure sealant techniques. In this article, we will explore the history, indications, techniques, and benefits of these sealants that have been providing healthier and longer-lasting smiles for decades.
Pit and Fissure Sealant: A Brief Historical Overview
Pit and fissure sealants originated in the field of preventive dentistry, and their history dates back to the late 20th century. Before the development of this technique, the main approach in dentistry was focused on restoring decayed teeth, often requiring invasive procedures such as fillings or extractions. Tooth decay was a widespread problem, and preventing it was a challenge.
In the 1960s, a significant milestone occurred with the introduction of the first scientific studies demonstrating the effectiveness of pit and fissure sealants in preventing tooth decay. Dr. Michael Buonocore, a renowned researcher and dentist, played a crucial role in this development. He explored the idea that sealing tooth fissures with a plastic material could create a protective barrier against cavity-causing bacteria. His groundbreaking research laid the foundation for the technique we know today.
Pit and Fissure Sealant
Later, in the 1970s, several manufacturers began marketing the product, and the innovation reached dental clinics. Finally, this technique gained increasing acceptance in the dental field as more scientific studies proved its effectiveness in preventing cavities, especially in children and adolescents. As awareness of the benefits of sealants increased, they became an essential part of preventive dentistry.
Today, pit and fissure sealants are standard practice in preventive dentistry worldwide. This technique has proven highly effective in reducing tooth decay rates, especially in children and adolescents, who are the most vulnerable groups to this problem. The application of the sealant is quick, safe, painless, and provides a long-lasting protective layer on the back teeth, where fissures are deeper and more difficult to clean.
Pit and Fissure Sealant: Indications
We especially recommend pit and fissure sealants for children and adolescents, since these age groups are more susceptible to developing cavities due to a lack of skill in performing thorough oral hygiene and the depth of fissures in permanent teeth. However, this technique is not limited to young people, as in a few cases, adults can also benefit from the procedure, preventing the deterioration of posterior teeth.
Pit and Fissure Sealant
The Simple Technique
The application of pit and fissure sealants is a non-invasive and painless procedure. It is indicated for application to the occlusal surface of intact teeth, that is, teeth where there is no caries destruction. The technique involves the following steps:
1. Cleaning: The dentist cleans the occlusal surface of the teeth, removing plaque and any dirt or food debris.
2. Drying: The teeth are dried carefully.
3. Surface conditioning: Using a gel containing phosphoric acid applied to the surface to be sealed, the dentist creates a microscopic roughening effect to facilitate the adhesion of the sealant. Then it is rinsed and dried again.
4. Sealant application: After the tooth dries, the sealant, in the form of a very fluid paste, is applied to the fissures of the teeth, and then the dentist shines a special light on the material. This triggers a chemical reaction that causes the material to acquire a solid consistency, bonding it to the tooth.
The invasive technique
On the other hand, there are cases where the tooth already suffers from minor destruction or slight decalcification due to caries. Since these are deeper or already compromised fissures, this involves removing the decayed tissue before applying the sealant. However, it is not considered a restoration; both techniques aim to seal and protect the teeth effectively.
We need to make it very clear that the sealant only protects the grooves on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth. The surfaces facing the adjacent teeth, as well as the free surfaces, will always remain dependent on the sealant. toothbrush and dental floss.
Pit and Fissure Sealant
Transforming Lives, One Smile at a Time
The results of pit and fissure sealants are surprising, as they not only prevent cavities but also improve patients' quality of life. Children who receive this technique can avoid the pain and discomfort of cavities, as well as reduce the need for invasive dental treatments such as fillings. This results in fewer absences from school, less anxiety about the dentist, and a healthier smile throughout their lives.
There is a consensus that teeth that have been erupted (born) for more than 5 years and have not suffered decay during that period do not need to be sealed. The enamel has already passed the period called "eruptive maturation" and is unlikely to suffer damage from decay. For this reason, dentists apply them to children and adolescents, both deciduous and permanent teeth. They are generally not indicated for adults.
Pit and Fissure Sealant: The Power of Released Fluoride
In addition to creating a physical barrier against cavities, pit and fissure sealants also release fluoride over time. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to demineralization caused by bacteria. This means that even if minor flaws occur in the application of the sealants, the released fluoride can continue to protect the teeth.
Longevity and Durability
The longevity of pit and fissure sealant treatment is remarkable. On average, these sealants can last from 2 to 10 years, and in many cases, even longer. Durability may vary from person to person, but it is a valuable investment in long-term oral health. Furthermore, sealants can be reapplied when necessary, maintaining protection over the years.
The development and acceptance of pit and fissure sealants represented a significant advancement in preventive dentistry and in improving the oral health of populations worldwide. This technique allowed children and adults to enjoy a higher quality of life, avoiding complications associated with tooth decay, such as pain, discomfort, and invasive dental procedures. Furthermore, sealants contributed to reducing oral healthcare expenses and increasing awareness of the importance of prevention.
Pit and Fissure Sealant: Control Visits
It is recommended that sealed surfaces be inspected during routine visits to check the integrity of the seal. It is not uncommon to find adults who applied the sealant as teenagers and still have the sealed surfaces.
In short, pit and fissure sealants represent a revolution in dentistry, offering an effective and non-invasive way to prevent tooth decay. Their simple application, or even the use of invasive techniques, provides healthier smiles for children and adults, transforming lives by preventing the pain and discomfort of cavities.
Furthermore, with the release of fluoride and its proven longevity, these sealants are a powerful ally in the pursuit of lasting oral health. Investing in pit and fissure sealants is investing in a future with fewer cavities and more radiant smiles.
Author: Nivaldo Pinho, CROSC 9696
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