Sealants: where we have been; where we are going.

Sealants are a critical component to the restorative dentistry armamentarium. The introduction of the acid-etch technique has made the sealing of occlusal surfaces effective. Rather than waiting for an occlusal surface to break down to the extent that an occlusal Class I amalgam restoration is indicated, extending preparations to include all caries-susceptible pits and fissures, an occlusal sealant can be placed to prevent caries. Sealants have been shown to be effective when used alone over acid-etched enamel or in conjunction with a methacylate-containing adhesive. Pit and fissure caries can be restored conservatively using resin composite or amalgam, utilizing sealant to prevent future caries. The increasing use of direct and indirect resin composites for Class I and Class II restorations includes the use of sealants over restoration margins and polished resin composite. A newly developed sealant, Clinpro, extends to all pits and fissures that are desirable to seal and is efficient and effective to place.