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Clinical Evaluation of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Resin-Based Sealants in Uncooperative Children: A 24-Month Randomized Controlled Trial

H. Alharthy, A. A. Al Tuwirqi, Alaa A. Nadhrin, A. Aljubour, L. Khogeer, H. Elkhodary

Children, 2026

34 participants

Abstract

Highlights What are the main findings? Hydrophilic and hydrophobic resin-based sealants showed comparable retention and cariostatic performance in uncooperative children over 24 months. Sealant retention declined significantly over time in both groups, with child behavior emerging as a key factor influencing clinical outcomes. What is the implication of the main finding? Moisture-tolerant hydrophilic sealants do not provide a long-term clinical advantage over conventional hydrophobic sealants in uncooperative pediatric patients. Behavioral assessment and management should be prioritized when planning pit and fissure sealant therapy in children. Abstract Background/Objectives: Dental caries continues to represent a major oral health concern in children, particularly in uncooperative patients, where effective sealant placement is often compromised. This study evaluated the long-term clinical performance of hydrophilic (UltraSeal XT hydro) and hydrophobic (Helioseal-F) resin-based sealants in uncooperative children aged 6–9 years, assessing retention and caries incidence over 24 months. Methods: In a split-mouth, double-blinded randomized controlled trial, 34 children (104 first permanent molars) were enrolled, with 31 participants (98 teeth) completing the study. Sealants were randomly assigned to hydrophilic or hydrophobic group, with assessments at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Results: Complete retention declined progressively in both groups, from 59.2% to 2.0% in the…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 34 participants or records.

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