Pit and fissure sealant
Permanent molars erupt at a young age!
Children begin to grow molars (first molars) at around 6 years old. The occlusal surface of the newly erupted molars has deep and narrow grooves (pits), which easily retain food debris and become a high-risk area for tooth decay. Fissure sealing combined with good cleaning can effectively prevent molar tooth decay and help children grow up healthily.
When is the right time to seal grooves?
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It is recommended to be performed when the molars are fully erupted and have not yet developed tooth decay.
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The recommended age for sealing is generally between 6 and 12 years old.
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National Health Insurance covers one fissure sealing for each first molar of elementary school students.
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Other posterior teeth can also be treated.
The process of sealing grooves
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Clean the tooth: Carefully clean the surface of the tooth to be filled.
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Fissure sealant application: Apply the sealant to the occlusal surface of the teeth to fill the grooves.
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Light curing: Exposure to special light allows the sealant to harden quickly.
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Inspection and adjustment: Confirm the effect and occlusion after filling.
Precautions after groove sealing
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Regular inspections are conducted to check the integrity of the sealing materials.
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Encourage your children to maintain good oral hygiene habits to further prevent tooth decay.
As children age, the materials used to fill the grooves will be worn away, so the materials will not stay with them for their entire lives. However, on the other hand, the groove of the molars will also be worn and that makes them easier to clean!