Effect of preconditioning on retention of glass ionomer pit and fissure sealant: An in vivo 9-month study

Purpose: Caries prevention using fissure sealants is directly proportional to their retention. This in vivo study evaluated the effect of preconditioning on retention of glass ionomer (GI) fissure sealant, in maxillary and mandibular primary and permanent teeth. Subjects and Methods: Two hundred and forty teeth in 30 children of 6-8 years age range were involved. In all participants, the second primary and the first permanent molars in each quadrant were investigated following split-mouth design; so that, selected teeth in the right side had their pits and fissures conditioned before GI sealant application (Group A: n = 120 teeth). In the left side, however, the same sealant was applied without preconditioning (Group B: n = 120). According to Simonsen's sealant retention criteria, clinical assessment was performed at 3, 6, and 9 months. Data were gained then statistically analyzed using Chi-square test. Results: A significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) was evident between both groups at the three assessment intervals, with better sealant retention in preconditioned group. Although no significant difference appeared between primary and permanent teeth, maxillary teeth were significantly better in sealant retention than mandibular ones. Conclusions: Preconditioning enhanced GI sealant retention, more durable caries prevention can be thus provided easily with low cost.