Fissure Seals

Around the age of six, children’s first permanent molars begin to emerge. These back teeth, although strong, have deep grooves on the chewing surface known as fissures. These natural pits and grooves can easily trap food particles, plaque, and bacteria—making them particularly vulnerable to early decay.

Young children often struggle to brush effectively, especially at the back of their mouths. Fast or inconsistent brushing makes it difficult to thoroughly clean these molars. Unfortunately, if decay sets in at this stage, it can lead to cavities in adult teeth that must last a lifetime.

At Tranquility Dentistry in Ipswich, we recommend the use of high-quality fissure sealants—a simple, pain-free, and highly effective way to protect these teeth during your child’s critical developmental years.

Fissure seals are a protective coating made from a tooth-coloured resin material that is applied to the deep grooves of the molars. This coating fills the fissures and forms a smooth, shielded surface, making the teeth easier to clean and much less likely to develop cavities.

Seals are completely non-invasive, don’t require drilling, and can be applied quickly during a routine check-up. The entire process is comfortable, making it ideal for children—even those who may be nervous about dental visits.

• Prevent Cavities Before They Start: Research shows fissure sealants can significantly reduce the risk of decay in the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
• Ideal for Young Smiles: The earlier we apply sealants, the better we can protect your child’s teeth as they learn lifelong oral hygiene habits.
• Cost-Effective Preventive Care: Sealants are significantly cheaper than fillings, crowns, or more complex treatments required for decayed teeth.
• Pain-Free Application: There are no needles or drilling involved—just a quick clean and seal process.

Children should have their teeth assessed as soon as their first adult molars come through—typically between the ages of 6 and 8, and again when their second adult molars appear, usually around 11 to 14 years.

At Tranquility Dentistry, we recommend bringing your child in for regular six-monthly dental check-ups from an early age (we recommend a first visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears) so we can monitor the development of their teeth and determine the best timing for preventive treatments like fissure seals.

Fissure seals are covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) for eligible children. Contact us with your child’s Medicare details and we’ll check whether they qualify. Learn more on our children’s dentistry page, or read about tooth-coloured fillings if decay has already started.