The effect of fissure morphology and eruption time on penetration and adaptation of pit and fissure sealants: An SEM study

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the effect of fissure morphology on penetration and adaptation of fissure sealants and their relationship with the eruption time of tooth. One hundred and fifty extracted molars and premolars were divided into two groups on the basis of their eruption time. The two groups were further divided into five subgroups on the basis of fissure morphology. An scanning electron microscopic analysis of penetration and adaptation of sealant was done. V- and U-shaped fissures were found to have the maximum penetration. Penetration was very poor for I- and IK-types of fissures. No significant difference in penetration was found in relation to eruption time. Adaptation of sealant was not affected by any of the factors. Even the well-applied sealant does not necessarily provide complete obturation of pits and fissures, thus necessitating periodical clinical observation to determine the success or potential failure of the sealant treatment.