Fissure sealing of the first permanent molars as a preventive measure in children aged 6-7 years

Introduction: Fissure sealing is a prophylactic method used to protect healthy teeth from caries. The sealing of fissures and pits in teeth is a non-invasive, painless treatment in which a sealant material, specifically Glass Ionomer GC Fuji Triage, is applied to the occlusal surface of the tooth, particularly in the fissures and pits. This material plays a crucial role in protecting healthy teeth from caries. Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct dental examinations of the first permanent molars in children aged 6-7 years. To assess the effectiveness of fissure sealing of the first permanent molars as a preventive measure for preventing the occurrence of caries in children aged 6-7 years from the city of Kumanovo. Materials and methods: The study included 120 children aged 6-7 years from two elementary schools: “Bajram Shabani” from the city of Kumanovo and “Jeronim De Rada” from the village of Çerkez, Kumanovo. The children were divided into two groups: 60 from the city and 60 from the village. Dental examinations were conducted on the children, and fissure sealing was performed on their first permanent molars. A dentist carried out the dental examination using a dental probe and mirror. One year later, the condition of the sealed permanent molars was evaluated. Results: The research included 120 children aged 6-7 years, of whom 62 were male and 58 were female. During the dental examination, it was determined that out of 62 male children, there were 190 (76.61%) healthy first permanent molars, 8 (3.23%) with the presence of carious lesions, and 50 (20.16%) unerupted molars. While among the 58 female children, the dental examination revealed that 170 (73.28%) had healthy first permanent molars, 12 (5.17%) had carious lesions, and 50 (21.55%) had unerupted molars. Conclusion: By sealing the fissures and pits of the first permanent molars in children aged 6-7 years, we achieved positive results as a preventive measure for protecting teeth from caries, while also promoting education on hygienic and dietary habits for better oral health in children.