Retention and caries preventive effect of GC fuji VII sealant on the first permanent molars among high-risk residential school children - A three year follow up study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the study is to seal the permanent first molars in high-risk children aged 7–8 years with GC Fuji VII and evaluate its retention and caries preventive effect over 3 years. Methodology: The present study was a longitudinal, randomized, interventional trial with a sealant and control group. 538 residential schoolchildren with high caries risk received sealants. 495 day scholars did not receive sealant formed the control group. Children of both the groups were evaluated annually for sealant retention and development of caries for 3 years. Independent sample t-test and Chi-square test were used to compare the sealant retention and caries incidence rates. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and log-rank test were performed to compare the cumulative molar survival and sealant retention rates over 3 years. Results: Comparison of baseline oral health characteristics between sealant and control group revealed no statistically significant variation (P > 0.05). At the end of 3 years, total retention was 43.4% (n = 178), 45.9% (n = 188), 44.9% (n = 184), and 44.4% (n = 182), respectively. Cumulative mean incidence of dental caries at the end of 3 years showed statistically significant higher caries incidence among control 2.15 ± 3.33 as compared to sealant 0.25 ± 0.85 with mean difference of 1.90 (P = 0.001). Conclusion: School-based sealant program targeting low socioeconomic, high caries risk population can form comprehensive approach for caries-free generation. GC Fuji VII may be a better choice for preventing dental caries in school-based sealant program.