Wear Resistance Of Bioactive With And Without Etching Vs. Conventional Resin-Based Fissure Sealants

This study is a randomized controlled clinical trial designed to evaluate and compare the wear resistance and clinical performance of bioactive pit and fissure sealants-applied with and without acid etching-against conventional resin-based sealants in young adults aged 18-25 with caries-susceptible, sound first permanent molars. Seventy-five teeth were randomly assigned to three groups: Group 1 received a bioactive giomer-based sealant (BeautiSealant) with etching, Group 2 received the same sealant without etching, and Group 3 received a conventional resin-based sealant (Fisseal Promedica) with etching. Sealant retention and wear were evaluated clinically using modified USPHS criteria and digitally using intraoral 3D scanning at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The aim was to determine if omitting the etching step in bioactive sealants compromises their effectiveness, offering a simpler yet reliable alternative to conventional methods. The findings are expected to guide clinical decision-making on the most efficient and durable sealant protocols for caries prevention.