The 4-year results of a fissure sealant trial are reported. Glass polyalkenoate and bis GMA sealant were applied to 590 first permanent molar teeth using a half mouth study design in a group of 228 6-8-year-old children. Similar cariostasis was observed for the two materials at the end of 4 years despite marked differences in retention. Polyalkenoate cements probably should be regarded as 'fluoride depot' materials rather than fissure sealants when used in this context.

No abstract

Variation of the etching and washing times of enamel surfaces prior to the application of fissure sealants affect the bond strength in differing ways. Depending on the length of the etch time, the effect of washing may increase or decrease the bond strength of the sealant. Clinically, the most satisfactory combination of etch and wash time was found to be different to that suggested by the manufacturers.

Acrylic buttons were attached to tooth enamel by in situ curing of three types of polymeric fissure sealants, a dental cement, and a glass ionomer cement and then were immersed in water. The polymeric materials exhibited the greatest bond strengths to enamel, but in two instances the bond strength decreased with time although the cements showed increased strength. One polymeric material exhibited an unchanged bond strength.