Can adults have pit and fissure sealants?
Aug 22, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
Whether adults can undergo pit and fissure sealing depends on the condition of their teeth. It is generally feasible for adults whose permanent teeth have deep, hard-to-clean fissures and no history of caries. However, if the fissures are shallow, caries have already developed, or the fissures have been worn down, pit and fissure sealing is usually not recommended. It is advisable to consult a dentist to make a decision based on individual circumstances. To maintain oral health, adults should consistently brush their teeth in the morning and evening using fluoride toothpaste.
Generally, whether adults can undergo fissure sealing depends on the condition of their teeth. Adults whose permanent teeth have deep fissures that are difficult to clean and have not developed caries are usually suitable candidates for fissure sealing. However, if the fissures in the permanent teeth are shallow, if caries have already occurred, or if the fissures have been worn down, fissure sealing is typically not recommended. It is advisable to consult a dentist to make a decision based on individual circumstances. Here is a detailed explanation:
If an adult's permanent teeth have deep fissures that are difficult to thoroughly clean with regular brushing, leading to the accumulation of food debris and bacteria, and there are no signs of tooth decay, fissure sealing can be performed. The sealant forms a protective barrier on the surface of the tooth fissures, preventing bacterial invasion and reducing the risk of dental caries. This procedure is especially suitable for adults with poor oral hygiene habits or those prone to tooth decay.
For adult permanent teeth with naturally shallow fissures that can be easily cleaned with regular brushing, or teeth that already show signs of decay with visible cavities, or fissures that have gradually worn down over time, fissure sealing is generally not recommended. Teeth with shallow or flattened fissures do not require additional sealing and can be maintained through regular oral hygiene practices.
To maintain the health of adult teeth, it is important to consistently brush with fluoride toothpaste in the morning and evening, brush for no less than two minutes each time, and use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean the tooth surfaces between teeth.
