Comparative Evaluation of Penetration Depth of Nano-Silver Reinforced Pit and Fissure Sealant: Scanning Electron Microscope Study

Abstract

Background: Recently developed nano-silver reinforced pit and fissure sealants have been introduced to increase their antimicrobial properties. However, the addition of silver nanoparticles may influence the viscosity and flow of the material. Therefore, evaluating penetration performance of nano-silver reinforced pit and fissure sealant is essential to determine clinical effectiveness.

Objective: This study aims at comparing and evaluating the penetration depth of Nano-silver reinforced pit and fissure sealant to other pit and fissure sealants.

Materials and methods: A total of 60 extracted premolars for orthodontic purposes were divided into four groups (n = 15 per group). Group I Nano-silver reinforce sealant, Group II Unfilled sealant, Group III Filled sealant Group IV Nano-filled flowable composite sealant. Standard occlusal fissure preparations were conducted, and each fissure sealant was applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Teeth were then sectioned buccolingually. The sections were prepared for scanning electron microscope (SEM) evaluation and the penetration was measured using ImageJ software. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by post-hoc testing to compare differences among groups.

Results: Among all four groups, unfilled resin-based sealant showed the highest penetration depth. followed by the filled resin-based sealant. Flowable composite exhibited moderate penetration, while the nano-silver reinforced sealant demonstrated the lowest penetration depth. Conclusion: The nano-silver reinforced sealant recorded the least penetration depth.