Sealing of proximal surfaces with polyurethane tape: a two-year clinical and radiographic feasibility study.
OBJECTIVE
Proximal carious lesions comprise a constant clinical problem. The aim of this investigation was to test the safety and clinical effect of a new treatment for proximal caries.


METHODS
In 50 patients with two proximal initial lesions (D1-3 without cavitation, bitewing radiograph), orthodontic rubber rings were applied to gain access to the interproximal space. One of the lesions was sealed with a thin polyurethane-dimethacrylate foil using a bonding agent; the other lesion received oral home care with dental floss and fluoridated toothpaste, and was left as control.


RESULTS
In clinical follow-ups after 6 and 12 months and radiographic evaluation after two years, clinical retention of proximal tape and the underlying sealant, marginal adaptation, discoloration, tooth vitality, proximal plaque, and gingivitis were checked. In addition, carious lesions were assessed clinically and radiographically. The sealants showed good retention, marginal adaptation, and color. After two years, vitality of all teeth was still positive and no relevant differences in plaque accumulation or gingival status were found between sealed and control teeth. Nine sealed lesions showed caries regression and 2 progression. In contrast, only 4 control lesions regressed and also 2 showed progression. The loss of tape had no significant influence on the lesion progression, indicating the effect of the underlying bond. All other sealants and control lesions were stable, indicating an arrest of the lesion.


CONCLUSIONS
Sealing initial proximal lesions showed no clinical problems and mostly arrest of initial carious lesions on bitewing radiographs.
Alkilzy
Mohammad
M
Department of Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, University of Greifswald, Germany. alkilzy@hotmail.com
Berndt
Christine
C
Meller
Christian
C
Schidlowski
Marlies
M
Splieth
Christian
C
D000179:Acrylates; D000269:Adhesives / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004245:DMF Index; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D019232:Dental Restoration Failure; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000379:methods*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008689:Methacrylates / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011140:Polyurethanes / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016300:Radiography, Bitewing; D019279:Resin Cements / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D055815:Young Adult
D000179:Acrylates; D000269:Adhesives; D008689:Methacrylates; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants; D011140:Polyurethanes; D019279:Resin Cements; C097103:polyurethane dimethacrylate; C040415:heliobond