Retention and effectiveness of a chemically polymerized pit and fissure sealant after 12 months

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Abstract
This study evaluates the retention and effectiveness of a bis-GMA[glyceryl methacrylate] type of fissure sealant which polymerizes after conventional mixing of the 2 catalyst/activator components (Concise Enamel Bond System). Unilateral sealing of homologous pairs of permanent first molars [in children] was carried out by a dental hygienist. Of the 451 sealed sites sealant was present in 73%, partly missing in 8% and completely missing in 18% after 1 yr. The effectiveness of the treatment in preventing occlusal caries was highly significant and the caries reduction was about 70%. A strong relationship between status of sealant and occlusal decay was demonstrated. The shortcomings of the half-mouth design when evaluating sealants as a caries-preventive measure in public dental health programs are discussed.