Evaluation of The Effectiveness of Fissure Sealants in Preventing Permanent Tooth Caries in Children with Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome is at increased risk for oral health problems, including dental caries, due to a combination of anatomical, physiological, and behavioral factors. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of fissure sealants in preventing caries development in the permanent teeth of children with Down syndrome. A clinical trial was conducted on a selected group of children aged 6–12 years, divided into two cohorts: one receiving fissure sealant treatment and a control group without sealant application. Over a 12-month period, both groups were monitored for caries incidence through regular dental examinations. The results demonstrated a significantly lower occurrence of new carious lesions in the group treated with fissure sealants, confirming their preventive efficacy. The study highlights the importance of preventive dental care, particularly the use of sealants, in improving the oral health and quality of life of children with Down syndrome.