The Use of Pit and Fissure Sealants

Author(s): Robert J Feigal DDS PhD and Kevin J Donly DDS MS
Journal: Pediatric Dentistry
Volume (number): 28:2
Month, Year: 2006
Major topic: everything you ever wanted to know about sealants but were too afraid to ask
Type of Article: Review
Overview of method of research: Literature Review
Findings: In the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s, 70% of all occlusal surfaces were expected to become carious within 10 years of eruption and many of these occurred within 3 years. This supported the Council of Dental Research’s policy on universal sealant application within 3-4 years of eruption. Occlusal decay accounts for 88% of decay but only 13% of tooth surfaces. Upon review of several papers, Feigal and Donly have come up with the following recommendations concerning sealant use: Sealants are an effective although underused form of prevention when applied by a professional and proper follow up is performed. Sealant benefit is exemplified by placement on high risk surfaces and those with incipient lesions. The best evaluation of risk includes tooth morphology, clinical diagnostics, caries hx, fluoride hx and oral hygiene. Primary and permanent teeth must both be evaluated for caries and considered for sealant placement. Occlusal surfaces should be cleaned prior to placement; minimal enameloplasty techniques have also been advocated. Proper bonding will greatly improve the retention and efficacy of sealants. Glass ionomer materials can be used as transitional sealants and have shown some promise as long term sealants.
Key points/Summary: Sealants are an extremely effective method of caries prevention when performed properly, especially on high risk teeth and those with incipient lesions. Proper recall and sealant repair is essential to long term sealant success.
Assessment of article: A lot of good info.

Brian Schmid DMD