Penetration ability and microhardness of infiltrant resin and two pit and fissure sealants in primary teeth with early enamel lesions

Abstract

To determine the penetration depth and enamel microhardness (EMH) of an infiltrant resin and two fissure sealants in primary teeth with early enamel lesions. We randomly divided 174 sound teeth into six groups (n = 29): (1) phosphoric acid (PA) + Clinpro, (2) PA + Aegis, (3) Icon, (4) hydrochloric acid (HCl) + Clinpro, (5) HCl + Aegis, and (6) control. Percentage penetration (%PP) was analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (n = 15). EMH was measured (n = 12), and the percentage of EMH recovery (%REMH) was calculated. Twelve samples were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). All data were analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis and one-way ANOVA tests (p < 0.05). Groups 3 and 4 showed the highest %PP (all, p < 0.05). Icon application led to significantly higher %REMH compared to the others (p < 0.05). Groups 2 and 5 showed the lowest reduction in %REMH after pH-cycling. Application of Icon and Clinpro with HCl pretreatment showed the greatest %PP. pH-cycling led to a decrease in %REMH for all of the materials, although this effect was lower in teeth treated with Aegis.