Pit-and-Fissure Sealant
A preventive resin or glass ionomer material applied to the occlusal grooves of posterior teeth to seal susceptible surfaces against cariogenic bacteria and dietary acids.
Full Definition
Pit-and-fissure sealants are low-viscosity polymeric or glass-ionomer-based materials placed into the anatomical depressions of posterior tooth surfaces to physically obstruct bacterial colonisation and acid ingress. They are categorised as resin-based (first- through fourth-generation) or glass-ionomer-based, with each generation reflecting changes in bonding technique and fluoride release. Editors reviewing clinical guidelines should note that the term is consistently hyphenated in most major style guides, including the ADA and Cochrane reviews. The materials are distinct from bonding resins and should not be described interchangeably with composite resins. Retention rate and caries reduction efficacy are the standard outcome measures reported in clinical trials.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate as 'pit-and-fissure sealant' in formal editorial contexts. The shortened form 'fissure sealant' is acceptable in British English publications.
In Context
- "The systematic review concluded that resin-based pit-and-fissure sealants reduced occlusal caries incidence by 73% over 24 months." — Cochrane-style systematic review abstract
- "Authors should not use 'sealant' and 'preventive resin restoration' interchangeably, as the latter involves caries removal." — Journal editorial style note