Fissure Sealants
Fissure sealants are a preventative treatment. They are a thin resin coating applied to the biting surface of teeth to protect against decay and make it easier to keep the teeth clean.
Pristine Dentistry may recommend them on the biting surfaces of your back teeth. Fissure sealant are commonly recommended for children and are usually placed after the permanent teeth appear.
In adults fissure sealants can help to preserve healthy teeth.
The procedure is quick and non-invasive; the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried, special gel is applied then washed off and the tooth is dried again, this ensures that the seal will stick. The sealant material is then applied and then set with a light. The longevity of fissure seals varies depending on the bite pattern and wear and tear of the teeth, they can be easily replaced or repaired if required.
First-Time Patient?
Pristine Dentistry has been providing exceptional, high quality dental care to the community for over 35 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need regular check-up?
Regular check-ups help avoid unexpected problems and costly surprises. Catching an issue early gives you more options to consider, whereas a dental emergency often means pain relief becomes the immediate priority. Addressing concerns early tends to mean treatment is more straightforward and more cost-effective.
I clean my teeth at home, why do I need a professional clean?
Even with daily brushing and flossing, a professional clean every six months supports your overall oral health, and some people may need more frequent visits, particularly if managing periodontal disease. Left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar, which may lead to bleeding gums, bad breath, a receding gum line and eventually loose teeth. Regular cleaning and polishing helps guard against decay, gum disease and bad breath.
Is fluoride effective?
Yes, fluoride is well established for strengthening teeth and has been shown to meaningfully lower decay rates. It can also help reverse early decay and reduce sensitivity. Professionally applied fluoride is more concentrated than toothpaste, and our therapists and hygienists select the right treatment for your needs.
Why do I need X-Rays?
Dental x-rays are a valuable tool for examining teeth and gums, picking up more than what's visible to the naked eye.
Bitewing x-rays are taken on each side of your mouth and are generally recommended every two years. They show the areas between your teeth, helping detect early decay before a filling becomes necessary.
An OPG x-ray gives a panoramic view of your whole mouth, including teeth, jawbone, joints and sinuses, useful for tracking wisdom teeth before they cause problems. These are generally recommended every three years.
Are dental x-rays safe?
Our x-rays use a low radiation dose while still producing high-resolution images. For context, the dose from one of our x-rays is comparable to the natural background radiation from eating around 20 bananas. We still take safety seriously, using aiming devices and lead aprons where appropriate.