Stay cavity-free with the expert care of our dental team at Mindarie Quinn Dental Centre! We take great pride in offering top-notch fissure sealants to ensure your teeth remain protected and healthy.
What Are Fissure Sealants?
Fissure sealants are a preventive dental treatment applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, particularly molars and premolars. These teeth have deep grooves and fissures that can easily trap food particles and bacteria, making them challenging to clean effectively even with regular brushing and flossing.
Fissure sealants work by creating a protective barrier over these grooves, preventing bacteria and food particles from getting trapped and thereby reducing the risk of decay.
What Happens During a Dental Fissure Sealants Procedure?
We will walk you through the dental fissure sealant procedure, explaining how this quick and painless treatment can safeguard your smile for years to come.
Tooth Preparation
Your dentist will examine the teeth to determine which ones would benefit from sealants. The teeth are cleaned to remove any plaque or debris.
Isolation
The teeth that will receive the sealants are isolated using cotton rolls or a dental dam to keep them dry and free from saliva.
Acid Etching
A mildly acidic solution or gel is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen the enamel. This process, known as acid etching, helps the sealant material adhere better to the tooth surface.
Rinsing and Drying
After the acid etching, the tooth is thoroughly rinsed with water to remove the etching solution. The tooth is then dried using an air syringe or cotton rolls. It is essential to have a dry surface for the sealant to bond effectively.
Sealant Application and Hardening
Your dentist applies the liquid sealant material onto the grooves and fissures of the tooth. They may use a brush or a small applicator to ensure that the sealant covers the entire area that needs protection.
To harden the sealant, a curing light or a chemical curing agent may be used. The light activates the material and helps it bond to the tooth surface, forming a protective barrier. The hardening process is usually quick and painless.
Evaluation
Once the sealant has hardened, your dentist will check its placement and make any necessary adjustments. They ensure that the sealant covers the entire chewing surface and is properly bonded to the tooth.
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Your Trusted Choice for Fissure Sealants
At Mindarie Quinn Dental Centre, our team of dental experts understands the significance of preventive dental care and are dedicated to safeguarding your smile from decay and potential dental complications.
By opting for fissure sealants at our clinic, you benefit from expertly applied, long-lasting protection that reduces the risk of tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas. Moreover, our pain-free and non-invasive approach ensures a comfortable experience, making it an excellent choice for both adults and children.
Frequently asked questions
To address common queries and provide you with valuable insights, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about fissure sealants. Whether you’re considering this procedure for yourself or your child, we aim to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your dental health.
Who should get fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers whose permanent teeth have recently erupted. However, adults with deep grooves and fissures in their teeth can also benefit from this preventive treatment.
Is the procedure painful?
No, the application of fissure sealants is generally painless. It is a non-invasive procedure that does not require drilling or injections.
How long do fissure sealants last?
When properly applied and maintained, fissure sealants can last for several years. Regular dental check-ups will ensure their condition is monitored, and any necessary repairs or replacements can be made.
Do fissure sealants require special care?
Fissure sealants do not require special care. However, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, to ensure overall dental health.
Can sealants be applied to all teeth?
Fissure sealants are typically applied to the molars and premolars because they have deep fissures and are more prone to decay. Front teeth do not usually have the same deep grooves, making sealants unnecessary.
Are there any risks or side effects?
The risks of fissure sealants are minimal. Rarely, some individuals may be allergic to the sealant material. Moreover, sealants can wear down or chip over time, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential.
The Cost of a Fissure Sealant Procedure
In general, fissure sealants are a relatively affordable preventive treatment compared to more complex dental procedures. The cost can typically range from $30 to $60 per tooth.
It’s important to note that some dental insurance plans cover fissure sealants as a preventive measure, especially for children. However, coverage may vary, so it’s advisable to check with your dental insurance provider to determine if the procedure is included in your plan.
To get an accurate cost estimate, it is best to schedule a consultation with us to discuss best options for covering the cost.
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Where to find us
Mindarie Quinns Dental Centre
Suite 3/10 Mindarie Drive
Quinns Rocks, Western Australia 6030
Tel:Â (08) 9305 9990
Public Transport:
The clinic is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Clarkson Station Stand 2 (Stop Number 21911), making it easily accessible by public transportation.