Modern thoughts on fissure sealants

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Preventive Dentistry
• Cariology

Background:

• Fissure sealants are crucial for preventing dental caries in pits and fissures.
• Current sealant usage is inconsistent and lacks evidence-based guidelines.
• Changes in caries prevalence necessitate updated patient selection criteria for sealants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on fissure sealant application.
• To explore the potential for extending sealant use to early carious lesions.
• To discuss implications for patient selection and clinical techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on fissure sealants and early caries management.
• Analysis of caries prevalence trends and their impact on sealant indications.
• Evaluation of clinical factors influencing sealant success.

Main Results:

• Fissure sealant application is technique-sensitive, requiring moisture control and operator skill.
• Evidence supports the extension of fissure sealants to treat early carious lesions.
• This extension can be considered a 'preventive resin restoration'.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing fissure sealant use requires updated patient selection based on current caries prevalence.
• Preventive resin restorations represent a promising application of sealant materials.
• Further research should focus on refining techniques and guidelines for extended sealant use.