Varnishes and Pit & Fissure Sealants
Sherri Lukes, RDH, MS, FAADH
INSIDE DENTAL HYGIENE (IDH):What do you look for in varnishes?
SHERRI LUKES, RDH, MS, FAADH: Because I typically work with underserved populations now when I practice clinically, I like to use varnishes that release the most fluoride up front, immediately after placement. But I have to admit, I also look at viscosity and ease of application as well. I dislike the thick and clumpy varnishes.
IDH:How do you feel about varnishes that are sweetened with xylitol?
LUKES: If the goal of adding xylitol is to improve the taste and make it more palatable for patients I'm fine with its addition, but it is not a determining factor in my selection. In my view, like all products we use with our patients, clinical function is ultimately the most important factor.
IDH:What are some of the main considerations when choosing a pit and fissure sealant?
LUKES: I would have to say first of all, it depends on the type of setting and patient being treated. If using resin sealants, I prefer the types that don't require an absolute dry field. When working in public health settings, glass ionomer cement sealants are preferred. When I am working with patients who have a high risk for caries, I prefer fluoride-releasing glass ionomer sealants.
IDH: Is it important that a sealant include ingredients like fluoride?
LUKES: I definitely think adding fluoride to sealants is beneficial.
FluoroCal™
FluoroCal™ is a 5% sodium fluoride varnish that is both calcium- and fluoride-releasing. Upon application to dentin and enamel, FluoroCal penetrates and seals exposed dentin tubules, providing immediate sensitivity relief to hypersensitive teeth. It is available in spearmint, bubble gum, and green apple flavors that are sweetened with xylitol.
Embrace™ WetBond™ Pit & Fissure Sealant
Embrace™ WetBond™ Pit & Fissure Sealant is the first pit and fissure sealant that bonds to the moist tooth. Research shows remarkable sealing ability and adaptation to tooth structure. The margins are undetectable, and the long-term success has been reported in the literature. Embrace releases and recharges phosphate and fluoride.
