Clinical effectiveness of resin-modified glass ionomer–based fluoride varnish for preventing occlusal caries lesions in partially erupted permanent molars: A randomised active-controlled trial

Background: Deep pits and fissures in partially erupted permanent molars are vulnerable to dental caries. Aim: To assess the clinical effectiveness of resin-modified glass ionomer–based fluoride varnish (RMGI-F varnish: Clinpro XT™ varnish) in preventing occlusal caries lesions in partially erupted permanent first molars. Design: In this randomised active-controlled superiority trial with a single-blind parallel design, 74 children with 182 partially erupted first permanent molars were allocated into two groups: Group 1: RMGI-F varnish; and Group 2: GI sealant (active control), with an application of 0.1% sodium fluoride varnish for all other teeth. The primary outcome was ICDAS score ≥1 at 12 months of follow-up. Data were analysed using adjusted Chi-square test and GEE regression for binary outcomes. Results: Group 1 (15.7%) and Group 2 (13.8%) did not differ significantly in ICDAS ≥1 scores at 12 months of follow-up (adjusted χ² = 0.373, p =.541). There was no significant difference in retention between Group 1 (48.3%) and Group 2 (20.7%) at 12 months of follow-up (adjusted χ² = 0.1, p =.752). Mean application time per tooth (16 ± 5.9 vs 20.2 ± 5.4 min) was significantly different (t = 5.26, p =.014). Conclusions: RMGI-F varnish was not superior to GI sealant in preventing occlusal caries lesions in partially erupted molars.