Dental sealants—applied to pits and fissures of teeth to prevent caries—have advanced rapidly. New-generation sealants now combine bioactive properties with optimal mechanical strength, thus known as modern sealants. This article presents a systematic review of the biomechanical and bioactive properties of modern sealants, as well as the factors influencing their clinical success.
Bioactive Sealants and Basic Biomechanical Properties
Bioactive sealants not only form a physical barrier, but also release ions (such as fluoride, calcium, phosphate) that help remineralize teeth and suppress caries formation. Meanwhile, their biomechanical properties—such as viscosity, retention, and resistance to abrasion—are crucial in determining long-term effectiveness.
Studies show that:
- Bioactive sealants maintain retention and caries-prevention effectiveness better than conventional sealants (glass ionomer).
- Sealant formulations with bioactive glass composition (e.g., 65% bioactive glass + nanosilica) demonstrate optimal mechanical properties and the best ion release potential.
- Modern sealants aim to preserve mechanics while also supporting caries prevention through their bioactive properties.
Factors of Clinical Application Success
According to research conducted by a Faculty of Dentistry Universitas Gadjah Mada student, Almujadi, under the supervision of Drg. Sri Widiati, MPH., on the success of fissure sealant applications by students, it was found that improved knowledge, skills, the role of mentors or clinical supervisors, attitude, and motivation increased the success rate of fissure sealant applications. Skill factors contributed the greatest influence on the success of fissure sealant application in the clinic. This means that clinical and human factors—such as operator competence—are also crucial in optimizing the biomechanical outcomes of modern sealants, not just material properties.
Future Challenges and Implications
- Mechanical Degradation: Sealants must withstand chewing pressure and abrasion for years—a major challenge in material design.
- Application Control: Contamination (e.g., water or saliva) can reduce sealant adhesion to enamel and decrease retention.
- Biocompatibility and Ion Release: Bioactive sealant formulations must be balanced; strong mechanics while maintaining high ion release capability.
| Aspect | Aspect Key Findings |
| Bioactive (Ion Release) | Sealants can release remineralizing ions (fluoride, calcium, phosphate) that support enamel regeneration |
| Biomechanics (Retention & Durability) | Modern sealants show superior retention and durability compared to traditional sealants |
| Clinical Applicaton Factors | Operator competence (skills, guidance, motivation) significantly influences the final outcome |
| Practical Challenges | Sensitivitas teknik aplikasi, kemungkinan kontaminasi, dan kebutuhan balancing sifat material |
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Modern bioactive sealants are an important innovation in caries prevention—combining mechanical and biological functions through optimal retention and remineralization ability. However, long-term success depends not only on the material, but also on clinical factors such as application technique and operator competence.
References
Almujadi, Drg. Sri Widiati, MPH., Factors Influencing the Success of Students in the Application of Fissure Sealant at the Dental Health Department Clinic, Health Polytechnic, Ministry of Health Yogyakarta, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/home/detail_pencarian/56510
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
