Aim: The anatomical pits and fissures of the teeth have long been recognized as susceptible areas for the initiation of dental caries. The extreme vulnerability to decay of these pits and fissures on the occlusal surfaces has prompted dental scientists to seek methods of caries prevention. Motivated by the role of pit and fissure sealants in caries prevention, the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of Fuji VII glass ionomer sealant and Concise resin-based sealant.
Methods and materials: An in vitro study was undertaken using forty premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons. The teeth were divided into two groups and sealants were applied. One was an experimental group using Fuji VII as a pit and fissure sealant and the other a control group using Concise. The teeth were kept in gentian violet dye for 24 hours, the sectioned samples were observed for the extent of dye penetration, and scores were based on established scoring criteria.
Results: The comparison of the performance of the two groups showed a statistically significant difference.
Conclusion: The Concise resin-based sealant performed better in terms of sealing ability than did the Fuji VII glass ionomer sealant.