Dental Sealants: A Comprehensive Overview for Caries Prevention

Abstract

Dental caries is a highly prevalent and destructive oral disease impacting physical health, quality of life, and overall well-being. Effective preventive strategies like dental sealants are crucial for maintaining oral health. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth understanding of dental sealants' classification, mechanisms, effectiveness in caries prevention and arrest, clinical indications, longevity, and factors influencing success.
Dental sealants are classified into resin sealants, glass ionomer sealants, and hybrid sealants based on their material composition. They prevent caries by creating a physical barrier, facilitating oral hygiene, and releasing remineralizing ions. Numerous studies demonstrate their effectiveness, with resin sealants reaching up to 92% preventive fraction at 6 months and 61% at 60 months.
Dental sealants are recommended for patients with high caries risk, both primary and permanent teeth, sound tooth surfaces, and non-cavitated caries lesions. Their application on occlusal fissures, smooth surfaces, fully/partially erupted molars, and teeth with fluorosis is supported by evidence. Adequate moisture control, proper surface preparation with pumice cleaning and acid etching, and judicious use of dental adhesives optimize sealant longevity.
While resin sealants generally exhibit superior retention, the choice of material should consider caries risk, eruption status, and fluorosis presence. Ongoing research and advancements in dental materials will further enhance sealants' efficacy and longevity, solidifying their role in modern preventive dentistry as part of a comprehensive caries management approach.