Abstract
Background: Proper marginal adaptation of pit and fissure sealant can prevent the occlusal caries via prevention of the accumulation of biofilm and the penetration of microorganisms and improvement of their retention. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the marginal adaptation of the resin-based sealant after fissure pretreatment with Er, Cr: YSSG Laser and compare it to the conventional etching method.
Methods: In two equal groups (n=9), 18 extracted premolars were randomly enrolled in this trial and pretreated with either Group I: ER, CR: YSSG laser etching (Biolase, USA) or Group II: acid etch (Scotch bond TM, 3M ESPE, USA) as surface treatment before application of pits and fissure sealants (Clinpro TM Sealant, 3M ESPE, USA). Materials used in this study were applied according to the manufacturer instructions. After thermocycling and sectioning of the teeth, the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to measure the sealant marginal adaption.
Results: There was a significant difference between both groups for sealant adaptability and ER, CR: YSSG laser etching showed statistically significant higher adaptation of the pits and fissure sealant
Conclusions: ER, CR: YSSG laser etching could be used as alternative to the conventional acid etching prior to the application of pits and fissure sealant.
Keywords: Adaptation, Laser, Pit and fissure sealant, Resin-based sealant