A Review of Glass Ionomer as ‘ART’ Sealant

Abstract

Pit and fissure sealants are a highly effective method for prevention of dental caries by forming a physical
barrier, preventing accumulation of micro-organisms and food debris in the fissures. Currently, resin-based
sealants and glass-ionomer sealants are the two main forms of sealants used clinically. Resin-based sealants
are highly moisture sensitive and hence, glass-ionomer sealants which are less sensitive to moisture are
used. With the advent of the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART), high-viscosity glass-ionomers were
introduced as ART sealant, which are retained longer than low and medium viscosity glass-ionomers, but
shorter than resin-based sealant materials. Use of ART sealants is an effective caries preventive approach
in partially erupted young permanent molars of children and in community based dental programs where
electrically powered dental equipment is not available.