Effect of Er YAG Laser and Self Etching on Mechanical Properties of Two of Types Pit and Fissure Sealants: An in vitro study.

Background: Pit-and-fissure sealants are recommended to prevent caries in newly erupted permanent molars. Occlusal surfaces are prone to caries due to deep pits and fissures that trap plaque, with over two-thirds of caries in children occurring in these areas.Aim: Compare the effect of Er: YAG laser Fotona and self-etching Adper™ 3M ESPE of two types of fissure sealants [3M ClinproTM (Hydrophobic) and Ultraseal XT hydro (Hydrophilic)] on microleakage.Material and Method: A total of 40 extracted premolars were randomly divided into two groups (N=20) based on the type of fissure sealant used: Group I: Clinpro 3M ESPE (hydrophobic) and Group II: Ultraseal XT hydro (hydrophilic). Each group was further subdivided into two sub-groups (N=10) according to the enamel pretreatment method: Sub-groups IA and IIA received self-etching adhesive Adper™ 3M ESPE, while Sub-groups IB and IIB underwent Er:YAG laser Fotona treatment. Specimens were stored in distilled water before testing, premolars were prepared and subjected to thermocycling and dye penetration analysis. Cross-sections were examined under a stereomicroscope was quantified using Image J software. Outcomes were assessed by two blinded examiners to ensure reliability.Results: The result of the study showed significant differences in microleakage, IA had the highest percentage of no leakage (40.0%), while IB and IIB had 0%, with severe leakage most common in IIB (60.0%) (p = 0.037 and p = 0.029).Conclusion: Self-etching was the best pretreatment method for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic fissure sealants in terms of decreased the microleakage.