Success of pit & fissure sealants is affected mainly by:
- a- increased time of etching.
- b- contamination of oral saliva***
- c- salivary flow rate.
- d- proper fissure sealant.
The success of pit and fissure sealants is affected mainly by: b) Contamination of oral saliva.
Here's why:
- Contamination:
Saliva contains proteins and lipids that can create a barrier on the tooth surface, preventing the sealant from forming a strong bond. Proper isolation and cleaning of the tooth before sealant application are crucial to remove this contamination and ensure optimal adhesion.
- Increased etching time:
While etching roughens the enamel surface for better sealant retention, excessively long etching can damage the tooth and weaken the bond.
- Salivary flow rate:
While very high or very low salivary flow rates can slightly affect sealant placement, proper isolation techniques can usually mitigate these effects.
- Proper fissure sealant:
Using the right type of sealant material and applying it correctly are essential for success. However, even with ideal application, saliva contamination remains the primary factor impacting sealant longevity.
Therefore, while all options play a role in successful sealant placement, contamination of oral saliva poses the biggest challenge and requires careful attention to ensure maximum adhesion and long-lasting protection against caries.
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