Effect of nano-hydroxyapatite incorporation on fluoride-releasing ability, penetration, and adaptation of a pit and fissure sealant

Background: Dental caries is one of the most common multifactorial oral diseases and can be prevented using pit and fissure sealants. Aim: To evaluate the effect of nano-hydroxyapatite (nanoHAP) incorporation on fluoride-releasing ability, penetration, and adaptation of a pit and fissure sealant. Design: This was an in vitro study with two groups: conventional sealant and nanoHAP-incorporated sealant. Sealant penetration and adaptation were assessed using stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) (15 and 10 samples per group, respectively). Fluoride release was analyzed using ion-selective electrode (15 samples per group). The chi-square test was used to compare penetration and adaptation between the 2 groups, and an independent Student t test was used to compare fluoride release. Results: The nanoHAP group showed significantly more samples with no bubbles (P =.001) and no debris (P <.001). SEM analysis showed a significantly greater percentage of adequate fissures in the test group (P =.007). The fluoride release was significantly higher in test samples with p values of.001 and.016 on day 1 and day 60, respectively. Conclusion: The incorporation of nanoHAP into the conventional pit and fissure sealant improved its penetration and adaptation properties along with fluoride release.