Assessment of water sorption, solubility and interface properties for two different pit and fissure sealants

Abstract

The purpose of modern dental medicine is to prevent dental caries and promote minimally invasive techniques at the expense of invasive methods. Dental sealants are largely recommended for occlusal surfaces protection, but concerns are related about microleakage at material-enamel interface. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the association between chemical structure, sealing capacity and marginal infiltration for 2 fluoride F containing commercially available resin-based sealants: Pit&Fissure® Sealant (DMP) and Fissurit FX® (Voco) in order to achieve a better description and ensure adequate material selection in every day practice. An optimal resin-based sealant should mimic the structural, physical and mechanical characteristics of enamel. The main difference between the sealing materials tested is based on the amounts of inorganic filler and on the various shapes of the particles in the filler. Pit&Fisure® Sealant express less attachment at enamel interface, higher sorption and greater water solubility, when compared to Fissurit FX®. The better sealing capacity of Fissurit FX® can be described by the homogeneity of the material and the very small size of the inorganic fillers. Dental materials properties used as pit and fissure sealants are sensitive to mechanical, thermic and chemical stress from oral cavity. Regular dental check-up can detect the presence and integrity of sealant and ensure preventive effect in time.