Effect of ozone application on the immediate shear bond strength and microleakage of dental sealants.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether gaseous ozone application affects the immediate enamel bond strength or microleakage of 2 dental sealants.

METHODS

Sixty bovine incisors were randomly divided into 4 groups, and sealants were applied to the enamel surfaces as follows: ozone + Concise; Concise (control); ozone + UltraSeal XT Plus; and UltraSeal XT Plus (control). Ozone application was performed for 80 seconds, and shear bond strength was measured. Additionally, 60 human molars were randomly divided into 4 groups, as aforementioned, and sealants were applied onto occlusal surfaces. Dye penetration (microleakage) was assessed.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between the 2 sealants. Ozone application did not result in a significant reduction in enamel bond strength or an increase in microleakage.

CONCLUSIONS

Ozone gas did not compromise the adhesion of tested materials; therefore, one can disinfect the enamel surface before placing a dental sealant without impairing the material's clinical performance.