Tips for Effective Fissure Sealant Application
Introduction
In recent decades, there have
been significant advancements in preventing dental caries. Alongside systemic
and topical fluoride, the increased use and acceptance of pit and fissure
sealants have played a crucial role in caries prevention. About 90% of all
carious lesions occur on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth. These
surfaces, with their deep pits and fissures, are roughly eight times more prone
to decay than other smooth surfaces. While fluorides are very effective at
reducing carious lesions on the smooth surfaces of enamel and cementum, they
are less effective at protecting the occlusal pits and fissures, where most
carious lesions develop. Applying sealants is a highly effective method for
preventing carious lesions in the pits and fissures of both primary and
permanent teeth.
What is pit and fissure
sealant?
A sealant is a plastic material that is applied to the pits and fissures of teeth where dental caries occur more often to protect the grooves and pits of teeth from dental caries.
Evidence suggests that fissure
sealants are effective in preventing caries in children and adolescents
compared to no sealants.
Here are some essential tips
to ensure successful application:
1. Thorough Cleaning
Before applying the sealant, it’s crucial to clean the tooth surface
thoroughly. Use a bristle brush with non-fluoridated pumice to remove
plaque and debris. This step ensures that the sealant adheres properly to the enamel,
however nowadays it is optional.
2. Isolation; Proper
isolation of the tooth is necessary to prevent contamination from saliva. This
can be achieved using a rubber dam or cotton rolls however it is better
to do complete isolation using rubber dam.
3. Etching: Apply phosphoric acid
etchant to the enamel for about 30 seconds. This process helps to roughen
the surface to create micropores, allowing the sealant to bond more
effectively. Ensure you to rinse and dry the etched surface thoroughly.
4. Application of Sealant;
Use a syringe tip or brush to apply the sealant into the pits and
fissures. Stirring the sealant with an explorer can help eliminate air bubbles
and ensure it flows well into grooves.
5. Light Curing: If using a light-cured
sealant, expose it to a curing light for about 20 seconds. Hold the light
as close as possible to the sealant without touching it to ensure proper
hardening.
6. Final Checks: After curing, check
the occlusion to ensure the sealant does not interfere with the bite using articulating
paper. Adjust any high spots using a slow-speed handpiece with a round bur.
Finally, polish the sealant to remove any excess material and ensure a smooth
finish.
Instructions to patients after
fissure sealant placement
Here are some important instructions to follow to ensure
they last and remain effective:
1-Avoid Hard Foods: try to avoid eating hard or sticky foods
that could dislodge the sealant.
2-Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing twice a day
and flossing daily. Sealants protect the grooves of your teeth, but you still
need to take care of the rest of your mouth.
3-Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for
check-ups. They will monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if
necessary.
4-Report Any Issues: If you notice any roughness, chipping,
or if the sealant feels like it has come off, contact your dentist as soon as
possible.
In summary, the strategic use of
fissure sealants, alongside fluoride treatments, forms a comprehensive approach
to caries prevention, particularly in children and adolescents, safeguarding
their dental health for the future
For more information about fissure sealant check this link:
https://oraloasis.blogspot.com/2024/10/fissure-sealants-with-color-change.html
💗💗💗💗💗💗
ReplyDelete