Pit and fissure sealants: a review of the literature.

This article reviews the scientific literature regarding pit and fissure sealants for oral health care professionals interested in managing dental caries. Review topics include the development of sealant materials; their efficacy and use with incipient caries; the use of sealants in combination with restorative materials and orthodontic care; the utilization patterns of sealants; and professional and public awareness of and acceptance of sealants. While research findings overwhelmingly document the efficacy of sealants, their utilization has been limited. Recommendations to increase sealant use focus on the need to educate the public and increase the knowledge and acceptance of oral health care professionals about this caries-preventive technology.