Manual 1: Glass ionomer fissure sealant

Question 1

When is glass ionomer fissure sealant used instead of resin fissure sealant?

Answer 1

• when moisture control is a problem
• patient can’t cooperate for use of RFS
• temporary sealant for partially erupted tooth as operculum prevents moisture control.

Question 2

In which clinical cases can you use GIFS?

Answer 2

• non-cavitated occlusal surface: white spot lesion
• micro cavity in enamel but not in dentine
• radiographically caries not more than 1/3rd into dentine

Question 3

What are guideline recommendations for when to use RFS?

Answer 3

• permanent molars of all children as early after eruption as possible
• seal all fissures in primary and permanent teeth of patients with physical impairment
• seal all fissures in high risk patients

Question 4

outline the procedure for glass ionomer fissure sealant

Answer 4

1. clean tooth
2. dry the tooth
3. isolate the tooth / achieve moisture control
4. Two techniques to delivery GIFS:
   - deliver the GI directly from capsule or using WHO probe, place in fissure then place finger over covering occlusal surface
   - delivery the GI by placing small amount on finger, place it on fissure and press firmly
5. place finger firmly over GI for 2 minutes
6. maintaining moisture control, examine the seal
7. if happy, apply petroleum jelly over fissure sealant using finger
8. gently floss contact points
9. check occlusion with articulating paper and ask pt if bite is normal
10. advice to patient: don’t eat for at least an hour

Question 5

why don’t we use a probe to check GI fissure sealant?

Answer 5

• can scratch it/cause damage to sealant which forms hard surface for plaque accumulation