Fissure Sealant
A preventive resin or glass ionomer material applied to the occlusal pits and fissures of posterior teeth to reduce the risk of caries.
Full Definition
Fissure sealants are thin polymeric coatings applied to the grooves, pits, and fissures of molar and premolar teeth to physically block bacterial colonisation and prevent cariogenic acid attack. They are primarily used in children and adolescents as part of a preventive dentistry programme. The procedure is non-invasive and is documented in both primary and secondary care dental records. Editors should note that 'fissure sealant' is two words (not hyphenated) in standard UK usage and should not be confused with 'pit and fissure sealant', which is an equivalent, more descriptive variant.
Usage
Usage note: Write as two words: 'fissure sealant', not 'fissure-sealant'. Distinguish from fluoride varnish, which is a topical fluoride treatment, not a mechanical barrier. Both may be applied in the same appointment and must be recorded separately.
In Context
- "Fissure sealants were applied to the first permanent molars of a seven-year-old patient as part of the Childsmile preventive programme." — Paediatric dental preventive care record
- "The treatment notes recorded 'fissure sealant' on UR6, UR7, UL6, UL7, but the claim form listed only two teeth; the discrepancy was flagged for clinical review." — NHS dental audit document