Effectiveness of Primer and Bond in Sealant Retention and Caries Prevention

Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Resident’s Name: Murphy Program: Lutheran Medical Center - Providence

Article title: Effectiveness of Primer and Bond in Sealant Retention and Caries Prevention
Author(s): Mascarenhas BDS PhD, Ana Karina. Huda Nazar, BDS. Sabiha Al-Mutawa, BDS MSD. Et al.
Journal: AAPD Journal
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2008. Vol 6(1). 25-29
Major topic: Sealants effectiveness of preventing caries and retention w/ either bond or no bond

Overview of method of research: The purpose of this study was to test the use of a primer and bonding agent to increase the retention of a fissuresealant in a group of Kuwati children. 78 6-9 yo children were used for the study. 2 first molars in opposite arches were sealed either w. primer and bonding agent, and the other 2 w/o. The teeth were
1. Isolated with RDI
2. Pumiced with a rubber cup and rinsed
3. Etched for 15 seconds and rinsed thoroughly for 15 seconds
4. Dried.
One examiner, who was blind in the study was used to gather the data 2 years post sealant placement.

Findings:
Success with sealants is extremely technique sensitive. Factors affecting sealant retention are the eruption status of the tooth, isolation, tooth surface, and which arch the tooth is in. Previous studies and various articles have stated that the use of a primer/bonding agent can help sealant retention, and thus help prevent caries.
In this study, the following was found.
Teeth filled w/ Primer and bond
64% completely retained
23% partially lost
13% completely lost

Teeth sealed w/o Primer and bond
68% completely retained
20% partially lost
12% completely lost
There was no overall difference in sealant retention (p=.22), or in caries (p=.56).

Key points/Summary: When proper technique is used, primer and bonding agent does not enhance the retention of the sealant

Assessment of Article: Good article for us to review for our clinical treatment of patients. Limitations of the study include small sample size, and the fact that they only used one type of sealant(3m Plus).