Methods: A total of 316 newly erupted permanent molars were sealed in 93 children aged 6-14 years. Sealants were evaluated after 6, 12, 24 and 36 months. Sealants were recorded as “fully retained”, “partially retained”, or “completely lost”. Teeth were also evaluated for presence of caries.
Results: After one year, 71% of the sealants were fully retained and 16% were partially retained. However, at the end of the 36-month experimental period, 34% of the sealants were fully or partially retained. Retention was significantly better in second permanent molars than in first permanent molars (p<0.001). During 36 months, 4 teeth with lost sealants and 1 tooth with partially retained sealant became carious.
Conclusion: Despite the low retention rate, glass-ionomer material for fissure sealing appears to be beneficial for caries prevention in newly erupted permanent molars.