Inhibition of enamel demineralization by an enamel sealant, Pro Seal: An in-vitro study

IntroductionEnamel demineralization adjacent to fixed orthodontic appliances compromises both esthetics and oral health. The purpose of this in-vitro study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a new enamel sealant, Pro Seal (Reliance Orthodontic Products, Itasca, Ill), on inhibiting enamel demineralization. Two materials that have demonstrated success in white spot prevention and do not require patient compliance were used for comparison.MethodsThirty-two noncarious extracted molars were divided into 4 groups and received 1 of the following treatments: no treatment (control), fluoride varnish (Fluor Protector; Ivoclar Vivadent, Amherst, Mass), unfilled resin sealant (Delton; Dentsply Professional, York, Pa), and filled resin sealant (Pro Seal). The teeth were subjected to 15,000 simulated brush strokes followed by acidic challenge for 96 hours. They were examined macroscopically and sectioned for quantitative examination with polarized light microscopy.ResultsAll surface treatments provided statistically significant (P <.05) reductions in lesion depth compared with controls. Pro Seal performed significantly better (P <.05) than the other products, decreasing lesion depth by 97% compared with the controls and completely inhibiting lesion formation in 3 specimens.ConclusionsPro Seal shows promise as an effective method of preventing enamel demineralization without patient compliance.