Assessment of the inhibitory effects of fissure sealants on the demineralization of primary teeth using an automatic pH-cycling system

In this study, we examined the effects of fissure sealants on inhibition of demineralization of primary teeth using an automatic pH cycling system. Three fissure sealants were used: Teethmate F-1 2.0 (TM), BeautiSealant (BS), and Fuji III LC (IIILC). Using an automatic pH-cycling system, the specimens (n=12) were repeatedly demineralized and remineralized. Specimens were subjected to transverse microradiography (TMR), and changes in integrated mineral loss (IML) and lesion depth (Ld), indicated as Delta IML and Delta Ld, respectively, were calculated. In addition, fluoride levels in the enamel were assessed using microparticle-induced gamma ray emission/particle-induced X-ray emission (n=3). IIILC showed the lowest values for Delta IML and Delta Ld, followed by BS and then TM. The highest amount of fluorine in the enamel was observed for IIILC, followed by TM and BS. All fissure sealants inhibited demineralization in primary teeth.