Fissure sealant being applied to the grooves of a molar
Curing light setting a fissure sealant on a back tooth

Fissure sealants are a thin, tooth-coloured coating placed on the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Those grooves trap food and plaque. Sealing them is a quick preventive step we offer at our Cairnlea dental clinic.

Who benefits?

Sealants are often recommended for:

  • Children and teens when adult molars first come through
  • Adults with deep grooves and a history of decay
  • Anyone who finds those back teeth hard to clean

They are not a substitute for brushing, flossing, or regular check-ups. Your dentist will confirm they are suitable after an exam and, if needed, X-rays.

What the appointment is like

The tooth is cleaned, isolated, prepared, and the sealant is painted on and set with a light. There is usually no drilling and no injection. The visit is short, which is why families often combine sealants with a school-ready kids offer when clinically appropriate.

How long do they last?

Sealants can last several years. We check them at routine visits and repair or replace them if they wear. Diet, grinding, and oral hygiene all affect how long they stay intact.

Read more on our dental sealants page. Call 03 9363 4030 or book an appointment online. We are open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-2pm.