Objectives: Pit and fissure sealants are proven to be an effective method of reducing the rate of occlusal caries in permanent teeth. However, it remains uncertain as to whether preparation of the tooth with a 1/4 or 1/2 round turbine bur prior to sealant placement can improve the retention and/or increase sealant success rates. This study evaluated prepared and non-prepared sealants placed on the permanent teeth of Hutterite school children to determine which method resulted in higher success rates. Methods: Forty-three children were examined with a mirror and explorer following the placement of sealants at the University of Manitoba pediatric dentistry clinic. Children from these colonies shared the same genealogical background and had a uniform communal lifestyle and diet. Results: When in place for more than a year, prepared sealants showed significantly increased retention compared to non-prepared sealants (82% : 55%; p<0.05). A similar, but not significant difference was observed when sealants were in place for less than a year (prepared 97% : non-prepared 80%; p>0.05). When sealants failed, prepared teeth were less likely to develop caries than non-prepared teeth (20% : 31%; p>0.05). Conclusions: These results suggest that tooth preparation prior to sealant application is beneficial in retaining the sealant and possibly in reducing caries.

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