Fifth Annual Grant Winners 2004-2005

Sibel Antonson, Ph.D., HPD – College of Dental Medicine
Donald Antonson, M.Ed., HPD – College of Dental Medicine
William Trevarthan, DDS, HPD – College of Dental Medicine
Patrick Hardigan, Ph.D., HPD

Dean Robert Uchin, HPD – College of Dental Medicine
Chancellor Frederick Lippman, HPD

Title: Surface Protection Concept for Newly Erupting First Molars in Saliva Contaminated Environment

Abstract:

Even though dental decay in industrialized nations has fallen dramatically, the total number of caries as a result of pit and fissure decay has increased. This accounts for approximately 88% of all caries in young US school children in 1986 and 1987. Researchers have identified dental sealants as the most effective means of preventing the initiation of caries in deep pits and fissures.

Particularly partially erupted molars present a difficult situation. In an attempt to overcome the difficulties of moisture control encountered clinically, glass-ionomer sealants have been used although with mixed results, such as poor retention.

It was reported that GC Fuji Triage can bond to tooth tissues with a moisture-contaminated environment, plus has seven times more fluoride release compared to traditional glass-ionomer products.

The objective of this proposal is to test the hypothesis that GC Fuji Triage can provide effective bonding on a saliva-contaminated enamel surface, compared to resin based systems, and therefore provide surface protection for pit and fissures on newly erupting first molars. To prove this hypothesis, we will be completing a randomized clinical evaluation of GC Fuji Triage compared to a resin-based system for its preventive effect on newly erupting first molars. A split-mouth technique will be utilized on 30 patients. The same operator will place the sealants; another calibrated blinded examiner will inspect the restorations for quality control and 6 month recalls will be completed. Contingency table analysis will be used to analyze group differences. The generalized linear model will be employed to explain any group differences.

At the completion of this study a clinical model will be created to predict the overall success rate of the glass-ionomer sealant materials in saliva-contaminated environments.