Effect of two different fluoridated sealants on enamel demineralization

Objectives: It is well-known that fixed orthodontic appliances predispose to increased enamel demineralization. It has been suggested that continuous fluoride release from sealant agents can prevent demineralization. We investigated the effects of fluoridated sealants on enamel demineralization. Materials and Methods: We randomly divided 51 caries-free premolars, freshly extracted for orthodontic reasons, into 2 groups. In 26 premolars (group A), Transbond™ XT light-cured composite (3M Unitek, USA) and in 25 premolars (group B), chemically cured composite Unite (3M Unitek, USA) was used for bonding of Ultra-Minitrim Brackets (Dentaurum, Germany) to the enamel surface. Prior to bracket bonding in group A, the enamel surfaces of 8 premolars were treated with Enlight Fluorobond XM Sealant (ORMCO, USA) (group A1), and the surfaces of 8 others were treated with Pro Seal Light Cure Filled Sealant (Reliance Orthodontic Products, USA) (group A2). In group B, the enamel surfaces of 10 premolars were treated with Enlight Fluorobond XM Sealant (group B1), and the surfaces of 7 were treated with Pro Seal Light Cure Filled Sealant (group B2). Ten premolars in group A and 8 in group B without sealer served as controls. All samples were blinded, demineralized in a well-defined area around the bracket, sectioned with saw microtome, and prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) according to standard procedures. Sections were investigated with quantitative x-ray analysis (EDX). Content of Ca, P, C, and F was determined in wt% in the enamel surface, demineralized enamel, and sound enamel under the bracket. The measurements were evaluated statistically by the non-parametric Mann-Whitney test. Results: The Ca and P contents were significantly lower in demineralized enamel compared with contents in enamel under the sealants in groups A1, A2, B1, and B2. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that Enlight Fluorobond XM Sealant and Pro Seal Light Cure Filled Sealant improve resistance against enamel demineralization.