Abstract
Introduction: Dental caries is a major global health concern, and the occlusal surfaces of molars are particularly vulnerable because of their deep pits and fissures. Sealants effectively prevent caries on these vulnerable surfaces. Researchers have extensively studied fluoride release from various sealant types, but the fluoride release and rechargeability of novel bioactive resin-based sealants remain unexamined. This study investigated the fluoride release and rechargeability of five sealant materials, with a particular focus on novel bioactive resin-based sealants.
Methods: Five dental sealants were evaluated: a non-fluoride-releasing resin-based sealant (Concise™), a fluoride-releasing resin-based sealant (Clinpro™), a bioactive resin-based sealant (BioCoat®), a giomer sealant (BeautiSealant), and a glass ionomer sealant (Fuji VII®). Disk-shaped specimens (11×1 mm) were prepared (n=7 per group) and submerged in 3 mL of deionized water at 37°C. Fluoride release was measured on days 1–7, 14, and 21, using a fluoride ion-selective electrode. After 21 days, the specimens were treated with a 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel for 4 minutes, and the fluoride release was evaluated daily for 5 days under the same conditions.
Results: Initial fluoride release was highest for Fuji VII®, followed by BeautiSealant, Clinpro™, BioCoat®, and Concise™. After fluoride recharge, Fuji VII® showed the highest release, followed by BeautiSealant, BioCoat®, Clinpro™, and Concise™ (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The fluoride-releasing and recharging abilities of bioactive resin-based sealants highlighted their potential as a viable dental alternative for pit and fissure protection.