Keywords
early carious lesion
pits and fissures
How to Cite
Abstract
The indication of the use of sealants on occlusal surfaces has changed in the last 20 years. In the past, occlusal surfaces were sealed to prevent the development of carious lesions, however, currently sealants are also used for therapeutic purposes, trying to stop active carious lesions. Formerly, carious lesions were treated with surgical interventions, currently a non-surgical and less invasive treatment is imposed, provided that the extension of the lesion allows it, seeking the preservation of the dental structure throughout the cycle of live of the individual. The therapeutic approach must evolve to provide solutions adapted to the needs of patients, that are easy to implement and whose effectiveness is supported by scientific evidence. This review work aims to analyse the available evidence regarding the use of sealants for therapeutic purposes in active carious lesion in occlusal surfaces. A revision of the available literature in the Pubmed and SciELO databases published from 2006 to 2024 was carried out.
Current evidence indicates that the application of sealants in incipient active carious lesions on occlusal faces is an efficient and safe treatment to stop the progression of such lesions. Clear criteria must be established when selecting the use of sealant as treatment for carious lesions. In active carious lesions of the occlusal surfaces ICDAS 1,2 y 3 and 4 where the extension is limited to the external third of the dentin based on the radiography, sealants are effective, efficient and safe, therapeutic sealing is an excellent treatment to stop the progression of incipient carious lesions. In ICDAS 4 lesions that extend to the inner third of the dentin and in ICDAS 5 and 6, restorative treatment is indicated
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