GENERAL PROCEDURES

Pit & Fissure Sealant

Sometimes it is impossible, especially for children, to brush deep grooves or pits on the chewing surfaces of the teeth effectively. These grooves are very deep and often tinier than the bristles on a toothbrush. A cavity will usually begin in these grooves because they are ideal places for cavity-causing bacteria to hide.

In order to prevent decay from starting in these areas, the grooves can be "painted" with a plastic coating called a pit fissure sealant. Sealant makes the chewing surface smooth, enabling people to easily clear these surfaces.

A sealant is not a filling. It is a simple procedure that is done by a hygienist. No freezing is required; the tooth is merely cleaned and dried and "painted" with the sealant material. It is usually clear or tooth-coloured, and patients can eat and drink right after the procedure.

Sometimes sealant can come off, but they are easily replaced at a check-up appointment. They usually keep the teeth virtually cavity-free during the years they are most susceptible to tooth decay.

Dr. Kochman can let you know which teeth are good candidates for this procedure.