Definition

• Pit: A small pinpoint depression located at a junction of developmental grooves or at terminals of those grooves.
• Fissure: Deep clefts between adjoining cusps, often on occlusal surfaces of molars and premolars. These are difficult to keep clean and highly susceptible to caries .

Introduction

• Although only 12.5% of all tooth surfaces are occlusal, they develop more than ⅔ of children’s total caries experience.
• Caries potential relates directly to pit and fissure depth/shape.
• Eradication of pits/fissures would eliminate them as caries sites .

What Is a Sealant & Benefits

• Thin glass ionomer coating placed in pits and fissures.
• Acts as a physical barrier to decay.
• Safe, effective way to prevent caries.
• Especially useful for molar teeth with many fissures that are hard to clean .

Ideal Requisites of an Efficient Sealant

• Viscosity that penetrates deep fissures.
• Adequate working time.
• Rapid cure.
• Strong, long adhesion to enamel.