Pit and fissure sealants in pediatric dentistry

Abstract

Caries on the occlusal surface of dentition is a significant dental health problem. Molars and premolars are the most vulnerable teeth to caries attack. The high susceptibility of these teeth to caries is directly related to morphology of their occlusal surface. Fluoride′s great success in preventing tooth decay on smooth surfaces has made dental caries largely a disease of rough irregularities. Enamel surfaces with pits and fissures receive minimal caries protection from either systemic or topical fluoride agents, the reason for ineffectiveness of fluorides in the pit and fissure caries may be related to the differences in enamel thickness and the inaccessibility of the base of pits and fissures to topical fluorides. The most efficient way to prevent pit and fissure caries is by effectively sealing the fissures using resins called pit and fissure sealants.

Keywords

• glass ionomer sealants
• pit and fissure sealants
• prophylactic odontomy