Caries-preventive effect of high-viscosity glass ionomer and resin-based fissure sealants on permanent teeth : a systematic review of clinical trials [protocol]

The evidence for the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of sealants in reducing occlusal caries in molar teeth has been highlighted in a number of articles in highly rated journals. The most commonly used sealant material is resin composite. Its caries-preventive effect relies on the sealing of pits and fissures through micro-retention, created through tags after enamel acid etching. However, these are easily destroyed by saliva contamination, which reduces micro-retention and consequently, the caries-preventive effect. Under the generally wet conditions in the oral cavity, Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) offers an alternative. Owing to its hydrophilic properties, GIC is not as moisture-sensitive as hydrophobic resin. The objective of this quantitative systematic review is to assess the caries occurrence on pits and fissures previously sealed with either high-viscosity glass-ionomer based or resin-based fissure sealants, in fully erupted permanent teeth, with follow–up periods from 24 months. The protocol of this systematic review has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO / Nr.: CRD42015016007).