Background: Proper sealant penetration of pit and fissure sealant can prevent occlusal caries via the 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 sealant penetration 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's instructions. After thermocycling and sectioning of the teeth, the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to measure the sealant marginal adaptation.
Results: There was no statistically significant difference between both groups for sealant penetration.
Conclusions: ER, CR: YSSG laser etching could be used as an alternative to conventional acid etching prior to the application of pits and fissure sealant.