Caries-like lesion initiation and progression around laser-cured sealants.
This study evaluated and compared the effects of argon laser and visible light polymerization of a pit and fissure sealant material on caries-like lesion initiation and progression. Following the lesion initiation period, the primary surface lesion depth was significantly less (P < 0.05) for the argon laser-cured group (97 microns) when compared with that for the visible light-cured group (151 microns). Wall lesion occurrence was 5% for both treatment groups. Following lesion progression, the primary surface lesion depth was significantly less (P < 0.05) for the argon laser-cured group (129 microns) when compared with that for the visible light-cured group (232 microns). Wall lesion occurrence was 15% and 5% for visible light-cured and argon laser-cured groups, respectively (P < 0.05). Argon laser-curing of sealant material may enhance the caries resistance of the enamel forming the enamel-resin interface and result in a reduction in caries formation adjacent to sealants.
Hicks
M J
MJ
Caries Research Laboratory, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Dental Branch, Houston, Texas.
Flaitz
C M
CM
Westerman
G H
GH
Blankenau
R J
RJ
Powell
G L
GL
Berg
J H
JH
D001128:Argon; D017438:Bisphenol A-Glycidyl Methacrylate / Q000737:chemistry*; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000528:radiation effects*; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D008027:Light; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants / Q000737:chemistry*; D013499:Surface Properties
D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants; D017438:Bisphenol A-Glycidyl Methacrylate; D001128:Argon