Abstract

Abstract

Dental caries, a multifactorial chronic disease, affects a majority of the world’s population and is regarded as the foremost global burden on oral health. Fluorides, while effective in reducing cavities on smooth enamel and cementum surfaces, are less effective in protecting occlusal pits and fissures, where the majority of cavities occur. Pits and fissures are highly susceptible to cavities due to their complex surface morphology, which promotes plaque retention. If they have a narrow and deep morphology, they are almost impossible to clean. Consequently, the prevalence of occlusal caries lesions on permanent posterior teeth exceeds that of caries on smooth surfaces. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have determined that pit and fissure sealants, which form a physical barrier between the tooth surface and oral environment, are the most effective treatment option for preventing pit and fissure caries. In this review paper, the general characteristics of pit and fissure sealants, as well as their classification, materials used as sealants and current application techniques are evaluated.

Cite this article as: Akuç Taşan Ç, Ceran F. Pit and fissure sealants. Arch Basic Clin Res. 2024;6(3):235-242.