Wear Resistance Of Bioactive With And Without Etching Vs. Conventional Resin-Based Fissure Sealants

Overview

This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the wear resistance and clinical performance of bioactive versus conventional resin-based pit and fissure sealants over a 12-month period. Conducted on young adults with sound, caries-susceptible molars, the study evaluated three groups: bioactive sealants applied with and without etching, and conventional resin-based sealants with etching. Clinical assessments and 3D digital scans were used to measure sealant retention and wear. The study seeks to determine whether bioactive sealants, especially when applied without etching, provide comparable long-term protection and durability to conventional sealants, potentially simplifying application without compromising effectiveness.

This study is a randomized controlled clinical trial designed to evaluate and compare the wear resistance and clinical performance of bioactive pit and fissure sealants-applied with and without acid etching-against conventional resin-based sealants in young adults aged 18-25 with caries-susceptible, sound first permanent molars. Seventy-five teeth were randomly assigned to three groups: Group 1 received a bioactive giomer-based sealant (BeautiSealant) with etching, Group 2 received the same sealant without etching, and Group 3 received a conventional resin-based sealant (Fisseal Promedica) with etching. Sealant retention and wear were evaluated clinically using modified USPHS criteria and digitally using intraoral 3D scanning at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The aim was to determine if omitting the etching step in bioactive sealants compromises their effectiveness, offering a simpler yet reliable alternative to conventional methods. The findings are expected to guide clinical decision-making on the most efficient and durable sealant protocols for caries prevention.