Sealants and Varnishes
Inside Dental Hygiene offers essential insights on preventive care, patient education, and the latest hygiene techniques, with articles, videos, and expert guidance.
October 1, 2023
Volume 19, Issue 10, September/October 2023
Page(s): p. 18
Inside Dental Hygiene (IDH): Is resin-based versus glass ionomer the main consideration in a sealant?
Connie Kugel, RDH, BS: Both offer advantages based on each patient's situation and needs. A 6-year-old with a family history indicating high caries risk is a good candidate for a sealant as soon as the teeth partially erupt. If there is soft tissue hanging over that occlusal surface, a traditional hydrophobic resin sealant will be difficult to place, so I would place a glass ionomer sealant at that stage. At a later point, however, I may use a resin-based sealant for more longevity. Another great option would be to place one of the hydrophilic wet-bonding resin sealants, as these materials are moisture-tolerant.
IDH: What else do you look for?
Kugel: The fill rate is important, but it is a matter of preference. A more highly filled sealant will have a higher wear resistance, whereas one with a lower fill rate will provide more forgiveness when you place it. If a highly filled sealant is placed too high, it could cause occlusal issues. Another factor is color; some sealants are clear, while others are white and opaque. Obviously, clear is less visible, while white allows you to visually confirm the presence on the tooth. Personally, I still prefer using an explorer to confirm that all margins are sealed.
IDH: What do you look for in varnishes?
Kugel: In the past, 5% sodium fluoride was the only formulation, so the primary differences were flavor. Now, we have some that are shellac-based or silane-synthetic-based, which are good for patients with tree nut allergies. Some have amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), which can help strengthen enamel. Some have casein phosphopeptide (CPP) along with ACP. There are so many different formulations now that can add different benefits beyond just fluoride.
A hydrophilic, wet-bond material that bonds well in a moist environment. This light-cured, resin-based sealant contains fluoride, and its white opaque color improves visualization during application and at recall appointments. A direct-delivery syringe and low viscosity make it quick and easy to apply.
henryscheindental.com/accleanpreventives • 800-372-4346
By incorporating xylitol-coated calcium and phosphate in a permeable resin matrix that does not separate, Pulpdent has developed a sustained time-release varnish with uniform dosage that delivers 10 times more fluoride than the leading varnish brands.* The pleasing taste ensures patient compliance.
pulpdent.com • 800-343-4342
Profisil® Fluoride Varnish gel contains 5% sodium fluoride in a mucosa-friendly, pleasantly flavored dimethicone gel. This formula does not contain ethyl alcohol or colophony (rosin), thus reducing the potential of soft tissue irritation or rosin-based allergies. It is available in a combination pack (10 of each flavor), Normal Pack Mint 50, Normal Pack Berry 50, and Normal Pack Unflavored 50.
www.kettenbachusa.com • 877-532-2123
* Dent Advis Res Rep. 2012;44:1.
