Evaluation of Sealant Retention and Caries Prevention on Posterior Teeth of Children — A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Dental caries continues to be among the most widespread diseases in the world. Pits and fissure sealants play a vital role in preventing dental caries. Aims and Objectives: To compare the retention of four different types of sealants (resin-based sealant, glass ionomer based sealant, resin-modified glass ionomer and polyacid-modified resin-based sealants) in the permanent first and second molars and premolars among children aged 6-14 years old, during the 18-month follow-up period. Materials and Methods: A double-blind randomized split-mouth trial was conducted among 20 children. Indicated teeth were selected in all the four quadrants. Computer-generated random allocation of either one of four sealants to the tooth was done. Evaluation was done at 6-month intervals for 18 months using modified Simonsen’s criteria. Intergroup comparison of retention of sealants and reapplication percentage was analysed using Pearson’s Chi-square test. Results: A total of 140 teeth were sealed. At 6-month evaluation, resin-based sealants showed significantly maximum retention (90.0%) and least retention by glass ionomer sealants (6.1%). At 18-month follow-up, resin-based sealants (66.7%) showed significantly higher retention followed by polyacid-modified resin (33.3%), resin-modified glass ionomer (6.1%) and glass ionomer sealants (3.0%). Conclusion: The retention rates of resin-based sealants were superior to that of other sealants at the end of 6 months and 18 months.