What is a Pit & Fissure Sealant?
The chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars and premolars) have deep grooves and pits called fissures. These grooves are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush, making them a prime location for plaque and bacteria to accumulate — leading to cavities.
Pit and fissure sealants are thin, protective coatings made of dental resin that are bonded directly to the chewing surfaces. They fill in the deep grooves, creating a smooth surface that is easy to clean and resistant to decay. Sealants are one of the most effective preventive dental treatments available.
Reduces cavity risk by up to 80%
Painless — no drilling or injections
Applied in a single ~40 min appointment
Long-lasting protection (5–10 years)
Clear or tooth-coloured — virtually invisible
Suitable for both children and adults
The Sealant Application Process
Cleaning
The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried to remove any plaque or debris.
Etching
A mild acidic solution is applied to the chewing surface to roughen it slightly, helping the sealant bond more effectively.
Rinsing & Drying
The tooth is rinsed and dried completely — a dry surface is essential for proper bonding.
Sealant Application
The liquid sealant resin is painted onto the tooth surface, flowing into all the pits and fissures.
Curing
A special curing light is used to harden the sealant within seconds, creating a durable protective coating.
Who Should Get Sealants?
Sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers when their permanent back teeth first erupt — typically between ages 6–14. However, adults without decay or existing fillings in their molars can also benefit greatly from sealants.
Best Candidates for Sealants
- Children aged 6–14 (newly erupted molars and premolars)
- Adults with deep fissures and no existing fillings
- Patients with a high cavity risk
- Patients with difficulty brushing effectively
- Anyone wanting maximum preventive protection