Dental fissure sealants are a protective layer applied on the chewing teeth (the molars) to reduce tooth decay. Applying a sealant is quick and painless and can be done by your dental practitioner.

What are fissure sealants?

Sealant is most commonly applied to the grooves, known as fissures, and pits of the back molars. These are the most common locations for cavities in the teeth. The procedure can be done by a dentist, a dental hygienist or an oral health therapist.

Fissure sealants are a white or clear composite resin, like a white tooth filling. The sealants provide a barrier against bacteria that can cause plaque. They are designed to prevent tooth decay and cavities.

Your dentist might advise you to have fissure sealants if you have large grooves or pits in your teeth. Not all teeth with fissures need sealants.

Some dentists will recommend sealants for the first molar teeth, which appear at around 6 years of age. The back teeth (second and third molars) emerge at around 13 years and should be checked to see whether sealants might help. Some adults also get sealants.