Fissure Sealants

Fissure sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of a child’s back teeth. They act as a barrier, preventing food and bacteria from settling in the deep grooves and crevices where decay often starts. Fissure sealants are a simple and effective way to help protect children’s teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.

How it works

The back teeth (molars and premolars) have natural grooves and pits on their chewing surfaces. These are the places where food debris and plaque collect most easily — and they’re the hardest spots for a toothbrush to clean. A fissure sealant is a thin layer of tooth-coloured resin that flows into those grooves and sets hard, giving the tooth a smooth, easier-to-clean surface.

What to expect

Fissure sealants are quick, painless and require no drilling or injections:

1. The tooth is cleaned and gently dried
2. A mild etching gel is applied for a few seconds to help the sealant bond
3. The sealant is painted on and hardened with a curing light
4. A quick polish and check

Each tooth takes only a couple of minutes. Most children don’t even notice it’s being done.

When are they recommended?

• Adult back teeth — ideally sealed soon after they erupt (usually ages 6–14)
• Children at higher risk of decay — e.g. due to diet, medication, or previous cavities
• Teeth with particularly deep grooves where cleaning is difficult

Your dentist or hygienist will tell you if fissure sealants are a good idea for your child — they’re not always necessary.

NHS availability

Fissure sealants are available on the NHS for children where clinically appropriate. There’s no extra charge on top of your child’s NHS check-up.

How long do they last?

A well-placed sealant can last 5–10 years or longer with normal care. We’ll check them at every routine exam and top them up if any part has worn away. They’re a really simple way to give a child’s teeth a proper head-start.