Comparison of Retention Rates of Pit and Fissure Sealants Using Flowable Composite and Moisture-tolerant Resin-based Sealant: An In Vivo Study.

Abstract

Aims and background: To compare and evaluate the retention rate of flowable composite and moisture-tolerant pit and fissure sealant on pits and fissures of molars.

Materials and methods: A split-mouth design was chosen on 58 pediatric patients on their mandibular first permanent molars. In group I [Embrace WetBond sealant (EWS) group], the right lower permanent first molar was sealed. In group II [Estelite Flowable Composite (EFC) group], the left lower permanent first molar was treated. After application, clinical evaluation was done at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Postoperatively, the teeth were clinically evaluated for retention.

Results: The complete retention rates of the EWS and EFC groups in our study at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were as follows: EWS group-100%, 100%, 98.3%, 81%; EFC group-67.2%, 46.6%, 32.2%, 10.3%. The Chi-square test showed a statistically significant association between the retention rates of EWS and EFC at 12 months, with a Chi-square value of 63.127 and a p-value of < 0.001.

Conclusion: The Embrace WetBond (EWS) sealant group showed better retention over a period of time when compared to that of EFC.

Clinical significance: Composite materials with good retentive properties and which have the added advantage of higher strength will be able to withstand masticatory forces and hence prevent their loss from the tooth surfaces.

How to cite this article: Adapa DSSK A, Ayilliath A, Ephraim R, et al. Comparison of Retention Rates of Pit and Fissure Sealants Using Flowable Composite and Moisture-tolerant Resin-based Sealant: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(6):709-718.