Evaluation of a fluoride-containing sealant by SEM, microleakage, and fluoride release.

A fluoride-containing sealant (FluroShield) was evaluated in vitro and compared to a sealant without fluoride (Helio-Seal). Both materials were applied to the occlusal surface of extracted teeth and microscopically evaluated for their ability to penetrate pits and fissures. Additional specimens were subjected to dye immersion and evaluated for resistance to microleakage. Disc-shaped samples of the fluoride-containing sealant were immersed in distilled water and analyzed daily for seven days for fluoride release. All specimens of FluroShield released fluoride during the evaluation period, but there were differences between the materials in resistance to microleakage.