Assessment of two curing systems in a self-etching primer/adhesive sealant: a preliminary study for a clinical trial

Abstract

Aim: This was to assess the clinical performance of two different polymerization regimens of a non-rinse conditioning self/etching adhesive/sealant system (Adper Prompt-L-Pop, 3M ESPE) placed in recently erupted first permanent molars in two paediatric dental practices.

Methods: A total of 40 healthy 5 to 8 year old patients (20 from each practice) presenting at least two caries-free recently erupted first permanent molars participated in this preliminary test. A total of 128 molars were fissure sealed (FS) and cured with two different curing regimens. Group 1 (64 teeth) used Adper L-Pop + Clinpro as a one-step cure regimen. Group 2 (64 teeth) used Adper L-Pop + Clinpro with a two-step cure regimen using cotton-roll isolation. Sealants were evaluated 6 to 12 months after placement.

Results: No differences were found in the ratings between the two polymerization regimens. In Group 1, 28 molars recorded FS fully retained rated A, 29 were rated B (partially missing) and 7 sealants were completely lost (C). In Group 2, 30 molars were rated A, another 30 scored B and 4 molars were totally lost (C).

Conclusion: The poor performance of both FS polymerization regimens of the non-rinse conditioning self/etching adhesive/sealant system (Adper Prompt-L-Pop, 3M ESPE) placed in recently erupted first permanent molars in the present test does not justify its use in young children.