Effectiveness of plaque indicators and air polishing for the sealing of pits and fissures.

Sealing of pits and fissures is one of the most effective techniques in caries prevention: however incomplete removal of plaque debris, can cause lack of retention of the sealant. Sixty first permanent molars were sealed for this study. The teeth were divided into four groups. All teeth were isolated with a dental dam before cleaning and coronal polishing was performed with synthetic bristles or air polishing. Disclosing solution was used to reveal plaque. Three different operators performed cleanings and sealing. The results show that the plaque indicator was necessary to ensure complete cleansing of pit and fissures. PROPHYflex3 was the easiest and most effective device for removing plaque and debris. Synthetic bristles failed to thoroughly cleanse the surface in most attempts. Results suggest that pits and fissures should be cleaned with a plaque indicator and air polishers before placing a sealing material to ensure complete removal of plaque from the tooth.