Impact of Resin Sealants on the Prevention of Secondary Caries Adjacent to Composite Restorations

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the impact of resin sealants on the prevention of secondary caries adjacent to composite restorations.

Materials and Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted on 80 patients requiring Class I or Class II composite restorations. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (composite restorations without sealant) and Group B (composite restorations with resin sealant application). All procedures were performed under standardized conditions. Patients were followed up at 3, 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome assessed was the incidence of secondary caries while secondary outcomes included marginal integrity and plaque accumulation. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with a p-value of ≤0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: At 12 months, the incidence of secondary caries was significantly lower in Group B (12.5%) compared to Group A (30%) (p = 0.04). Improved marginal integrity was observed in the sealant group. 75% of restorations showing intact margins compared to 50% in the control group (p = 0.03). Plaque accumulation was also reduced in Group B (25%) compared to Group A (45%). This showed borderline statistical significance (p = 0.05).

Conclusion: The application of resin sealants significantly reduces secondary caries and improves marginal integrity of composite restorations. It may be considered an effective adjunctive measure for enhancing restoration longevity and preventing recurrent decay.