Pit is a pinpoint depression present on the tooth.

Fissures are deep clefts present between two cusps on the biting surface of the teeth.

The high prevalence of decay in these pits and fissures is considered a major dental problem. Pit and fissure decay accounts for almost 50 % of the decay in human teeth.

CAUSES OF PIT AND FISSURE DECAY

• These pits and fissures are grooves present on the biting surface. These areas provide shelter to the microorganisms that cause dental decay.
• These deep pits and fissures permit the entry of microorganisms and food which leads to the formation of dental plaque.

• When carbohydrates in food react with plaque, acid is released. This acid damages the enamel walls leading to pit and fissure decay.

PREVENTION

• The best way to prevent pit and fissures is to seal the pit and fissures so that microorganisms do not enter and flourish in that area.
• This can be done using pit and fissure sealants.
• Pit and fissure sealants are fluid materials that can be applied on the chewing surface of premolars and molars and then can be polymerized.

PROCEDURE

• First, the selected tooth surface is cleaned with water thoroughly.
• After washing with water the tooth is dried. (air-dried)
• Then on this dried tooth surface, an etchant is applied (the etchant used is 30  to 50 % phosphoric acid.
• Etching creates micro porosities on the enamel. These porosities allow the sealant to attach to the tooth. (image)
• After this, the etchant is thoroughly removed from the tooth surface with water and then air dried.

Then the material is applied in these pits and fissures and cured with an appropriate source of light.

PIT AND FISSURE SEALANTS ARE INDICATED FOR –

• Newly erupted milk teeth (molars) and permanent teeth (molars and premolars )
• The tooth should be completely erupted in the mouth.
• Deep pits and fissures which are stained but not decayed.
• The tooth in question must have erupted less than 4 years ago.

PIT AND FISSURE SEALANTS SHOULD NOT BE USED IF-

• Individuals have shallow pits and fissures.
• Pit and fissures are self cleansable.
• A tooth that shows slight evidence of initial decay should not be sealed.