Children’s Fissure Sealants

The progression of dental caries is a slow process in most people; at current levels of consumption of fermentable carbohydrates and fluoride exposure, most early signs of enamel decay takes more than 2 years to capitate into a frank hole in the tooth. A number of variables can affect progression time and the progression of dental caries may be more rapid in deciduous teeth because they are less well mineralised.

Water fluoridation and topically applied fluoride, e.g.: toothpastes, mouth rinses, gels and varnishes, are the main decay management tools used.

Non cavitated decay is currently managed by removal of plaque and treated with topical fluoride and fissure sealants where appropriate.

Where a cavity has developed, it is currently managed by using a drill or air abrasion and restored with a filling. At petre dental, we only use tooth coloured filling materials especially on children.