Antibacterial Properties of Fluoride Releasing Glass lonomer Cements (GICs) and Pit and Fissure Sealants on Streptococcus Mutans

TITLE Antibacterial properties of fluoride releasing glass Ionomer cements (GICs) and pit and fissure sealants on Streptococcus mutans. BACKGROUND Occlusal pit and fissures are the most susceptible sites for dental caries. The clinical effectiveness of GICs and fissure sealants in preventing caries is well-documented, but there is some concern about bacteria left beneath sealants. OBJECTIVE (1) Study the antibacterial activity of GICs and pit and fissure sealants. (2) Compare between these materials. METHODOLOGY GICs (Fuji IX GP and Ketac molar) and pit and fissure sealants (Teethmate-F1 and Helioseal-F ). The strains was grown in the Brain Heart Infusion broth and was incubated anaerobically for 18 hours at 37°C and subcultured in MSB agar.Four wells measuring 5 mm diameter was prepared on each agar plate and the prepared materials was placed and further incubated anaerobically for 48 hours at 37°C. The zone of inhibition was measured. RESULTS All the materials tested showed antibacterial properties to varying levels except; among pit and fissure sealants it is Teethmate-F which showed more antibacterial property. CONCLUSION Teethmate-F1 sealant showed more antibacterial property compared to Fuji IX and Ketac molar. Helioseal-F did not show any antibacterial property.