Surface protection for newly erupting first molars.

The objective of this study was to compare the retention of GC Fuji Triage glass-ionomer to Delton FS+, a resin-based sealant on saliva-contaminated enamel surfaces. Seventy-two extracted noncarious human permanent molars were divided into 3 groups for sealing using Triage (T), Delton FS+ with Prime & Bond NT (DP), and Delton FS+ (D) alone. After prophylaxis with pumice, Groups D and DP were etched with 38% H3PO4 for 30 seconds. Group T was treated with Cavity Conditioner. A single drop of natural saliva was applied to the occlusal surface with a microbrush. Sealants were then placed according to the manufacturer's directions. Bonding agent was applied and light-cured for 20 seconds before the application of Delton for the DP group. All sealants covered the entire occlusal surface. The groups were further subdivided into 3 time-evaluation intervals: 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years (8 samples each). They were thermocycled (5 degrees C to 55 degrees C, 1 minute dwell time) at 250, 500, and 1,000 cycles, respectively. After each thermocycling period, they were subjected to toothbrush abrasion for their respective times (3,000 strokes, 6,000 strokes, and 12,000 strokes). All samples were finally observed clinically for retention of sealant. Samples with clinically visible loss of material were further evaluated under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to verify the loss in the pits and fissures. After the first thermocycling period, 5 of the 24 samples (21%) of Group D revealed complete visual loss of sealant. There was no further loss after the second period. After the third period of thermocycling, an additional 4 samples revealed complete visible loss of the sealant material from Group D (total 37.5% failure). SEM evaluation verified the complete loss of sealants. Groups T and DP showed 100% retention after the entire period of aging and toothbrush-abrasion. Both of these groups demonstrated similar wear rates. Therefore, concerning fluoride release and simpler technique, especially with newly-erupting molars, Triage has advantages.