| Popis: |
Objective: Higher protein content in the maturing enamel could hamper adequate etching for sealant application. Removing the organic content could improve its adhesion due surface alterations in the enamel. To enhance retention of sealants, higher protein content in immature permanent molar enamel could be deproteinized with sodium hypochlorite. Hence, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of deproteinization with 5% sodium hypochlorite before and after acid etching on the longevity of pit and fissure sealants. Methodology: One hundred and five immature first permanent molar in 35 children aged 6–9 years were included. In Group A, a protocol of etching, bonding and sealant application was followed. In Group B and Group C, deproteinization was done after and before etching, respectively, followed by bonding and sealant application. Groups were examined at 3, 6, and 9 months for sealant retention using Simonsen's criteria. Results: Intergroup comparison for retained sealants across all three groups over 9 months revealed that retention is more in Group A, followed by Group B and least in Group C. Conclusion: Deproteinization does not have an added advantage in the retention of pit and fissure sealant over routine acid etching method. Deproteinization after etching is better compared to deproteinization before etching. |
