What is a fissure sealant?
A fissure sealant is a plastic coating which covers the pits and fissures (the biting surface) of premolar and molar teeth. It acts as a barrier and helps prevents decay.
What is involved in the treatment process?
Having a fissure sealant placed is straightforward and pain-free! The tooth is cleaned, etched, dried and the coating is painted on the tooth. It is set with a special light, which hardens the coating.
Who is suitable to get fissure sealants?
As soon as a tooth erupts into the mouth it can be fissure sealed. It is most important to seal teeth that are at the highest risk of decay. The first and second molar teeth are most commonly fissure sealed, normally children aged between 6-13years old.
FISSURE SEALANTS - Frequently Asked Questions
Do fissure sealants hurt?
No, it is a completely pain free process.
How long do fissure sealants last?
On average fissure sealants can last approximately 5 – 10 years.
What is fissure sealant
A plastic protective coating that helps prevent decay.
Can adults get fissure sealants
Yes, of course!
Can you get fissure sealants on all your teeth
Fissure sealants are designed to fill in the pits and fissures of teeth which are more susceptible to decay e.g. premolars and molars
How soon after having the fissure sealant placed can I eat?
You can eat straight after the fissure sealant is placed as it is set and hardened with a special light during the procedure.
How to remove fissure sealant
Fissure sealants can be polished off, however they generally wear away naturally over time.
How Often Should I see the Dentist?
Every patient's case is different, but the minimum time that should be left during visits is 6 months
It is very important to maintain regular check-ups with your dentist. It is usually recommended that you attend at least once a year. However, your dentist will advise you best as it is different for every patient.
You may also be advised to see the hygienist on a regular basis.
PRSI & Medical Card
Is my check-up covered under PRSI
PRSI- Please present your PPS number and with your signed consent, Colm Smith Dental can check your eligibility. If you are eligible, your check-up will be free and a regular scale and polish with the dentist or hygienist will be €15.
Is my check-up covered with my Medical Card
Medical Card- if you hold a medical card, with your consent Colm Smith Dental can check your eligibility prior to your appointment. If you are eligible, you are entitled to a free examination, 2 fillings and all extractions per calendar year. Other treatments are available on the Medical card; however prior approval is required from the HSE.
Meet Our Experts
Our Reputation speaks for itself
We have generations of happy patients from all over Ireland, our aim is to provide affordable dental care which is of the best quality possible.
If you would like to read more of our reviews, you can do so on Google, Facebook, WhatClinic and many other locations. We pride ourselves on our excellent reputation and are looking forward to having you join our long list of happy patients.
Outstanding service and couldnt recommend any higher. Opened the practice for an emergency appointment at very last minute without any hassle. Amazing dentists throughout the practice who really care for their patients. Care is second to none.
Laura KearnsNovember 5, 2018
