It’s a preventive procedure, which is aimed primarily at preserving teeth in children Fissure sealing is a preventive procedure, which is aimed primarily at preserving the teeth in children. The term “fissure” refers to small depressions in the upper part of primary teeth. These areas are most susceptible to caries in patients in childhood. Accordingly, the treatment of fissures in children helps to preserve in the future the teeth that are formed on the basis of milk.
Reasons for the appointment of fissure sealing
We recommend sealing fissures as soon as possible. After all, children’s teeth are much more susceptible to caries than teeth in adults. Pathogens enter the tooth through fissures. If they are temporarily sealed, the path to the bacteria will be closed, and the teeth will not decay. Under such a “filling,” the tooth quietly develops, saturated with calcium and fluorine. The doctor, examining the baby’s mouth, notes how loose the tooth structure is. If the enamel looks dangerously thin, then tightening with sealing is not recommended.
Types of fissures
Currently, a classification of fissures according to their structure has been developed. Researchers note in children the following types of fissures in the form of:
- Cone
- Gutters
- Polyp
- Drops
Gutter fissures are the least problematic type. The mineralization in them is usually good. Such a fissure looks open, so the food remains in it almost do not linger. Cone-shaped fissures present a risk for tooth decay. Mineralization in this case is slower, and food residues remain inside the fissure. Drop-shaped fissures are a fairly complex type. Mineralization in this case is usually carried out by the pulp. Such fissures need to be sealed, as they contribute to the retention of food debris and tooth decay. Poly-shaped fissures are of the same type, but have an even greater complexity of the structure.
Fissures usually do not appear on the incisors, but on the chewing teeth, which are difficult to rinse and clean. Therefore, sealing fissures is an ideal method of caring for children’s teeth.
Types of fissure sealing
Sealing involves the use of fluid materials called sealants. Such substances easily penetrate deep into the fissure, but do not have adhesion properties. For this reason, the tooth must be prepared before sealing.
The sealing itself occurs in two types, namely:
- Non-invasive
- Invasive
Non-invasive sealing is used in cases where therapeutic agents can be dispensed with. This happens when the teeth do not have a complex structure and the doctor can examine the fissure for possible caries without resorting to dental tools. In a similar situation, the chemical preparation of the tooth is used. Invasive sealing is activated if the fissures are deep enough and it is impossible to seal them in the usual way, since it is impossible to conduct a visual inspection. Then the specialist is forced to resort to the help of dental equipment, expanding the fissure.