[Effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser on fissure sealant retention: Comparative in-vitro study]

ABSTRACT

Use of pit and fissure sealants are safe and effective preventive procedures for occlusal caries. Long term retention of pit and fissure sealants is essential for their success and depends partly on the method of fissure preparation. Recently, new technologies such as laser and air abrasion have been used to increase bond of sealants. This in vitro study compared the effect of laser with other methods [air abrasion and conventional] on retention of sealants by measuring micro shear bond strength. This experimental in-vitro study used sound premolar teeth. They were sectioned mesiodistally in order to use the buccal and lingual surfaces. Samples were randomly divided into 3 groups. Group I samples were prepared with 37% acid phosphoric. Group II samples were exposed to air abrasion and then acid etching. Group III specimens were exposed to Er,CrYSGG [2W power] and then acid etching. Bonding was applied on all samples and sealants in microbore tygon tube [0.7 mm in diameter and 1mm height] were cured. Data on micro shear bond strength was measured and analyzed statistically by One-Way ANOVA and Tukey tests. Mean micro shear bond strength for group I, II, III, were 23.51[ +/- 6.9], 39.09[ +/- 15.11], 21.44[ +/- 6.18] MPa respectively. A significant statistical difference [P<0.01] was detected in group II [air abrasion with etching] compared with other groups. Considering the smooth surface enamel used in this study, it can be concluded that irradiation of the laser before etching can not increase fissure sealant retention. However, air abrasion technique before etching showed greater sealant retentions