Comparative Analysis of Penetrability and Adaptability of Different Fluoride-releasing Pit and Fissure Sealants: An In Vitro Study.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to analyze the penetrability and adaptability of three different fluoride-releasing sealants in different fissure types.

Materials and methods: Extracted human premolars (n = 45) were randomly divided into three groups of 15 each and randomly allotted to receive the sealants Fisseal (FS), Helioseal F Plus (HS), and Beautisealant (BS). The sealed samples were sectioned in the buccolingual plane, and the deepest fissures were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The samples were also observed for the fissure types (I, IK, U, V, and inverted Y). The percentage of penetration (POP) and overall gap (OG) between the sealant and fissure wall were measured from the SEM images using ImageJ software.

Results: Group FS exhibited the highest POP (68 ± 29.3%) and the smallest OG (1.0 ± 0.9 µm). The least POP was observed for group BS (52.3 ± 20.3%). The I-type fissure was seen in most of the teeth (33%), and the V-type fissure was the least (18%). The mean OG was significantly less in group FS (one-way analysis of variance; p = 0.046). The mean POP was the highest in group FS, followed by groups HS and BS.

Conclusion: This SEM study revealed that FS had relatively superior penetrability and adaptability into the fissures, whereas BS was the least-performing material.

Clinical significance: Pits and fissures are harder to clean and more prone to dental caries than smooth surfaces because of their plaque-retentive nature. Fisseal could be clinically recommended to seal the pits and fissures and prevent dental caries, as they are long-lasting, and durable. How to cite this article: Albar NH, Vinothkumar TS, Shibli WH, et al. Comparative Analysis of Penetrability and Adaptability of Different Fluoride-releasing Pit and Fissure Sealants: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(1):55-61.