The effect of air-polishing occlusal surfaces on the penetration of fissures by a sealant

• Published in: International journal of paediatric dentistry Vol. 2; no. 3; p. 157
• Main Authors: Brocklehurst, P R, Joshi, R I, Northeast, S E
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-12-1992
• Subjects: Air Pressure; Analysis of Variance; Dental Enamel - ultrastructure; Dental Fissures - therapy; Dental Prophylaxis - instrumentation; Dental Prophylaxis - methods; Dental Restoration, Permanent - methods; Humans; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Pit and Fissure Sealants
• ISSN: 0960-7439
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-263X.1992.tb00029.x

An in vitro study was performed to assess the depth of penetration of a fissure sealant after cleaning the occlusal surfaces with an air-polishing unit, and to compare the results with those obtained after cleaning with pumice and water and after no cleaning. Forty-six clinically non-carious premolars and permanent molars were randomly distributed into three groups. Following cleaning, etching and fissure sealing, the teeth were sectioned. Each section was examined under a light reflecting microscope and the depth of resin penetration was determined. Fissure cleaning with an air-polishing unit produced a statistically significant increase in depth of penetration of sealant resin, and its use as a standard cleaning method before fissure sealing is recommended.