Thursday, January 19, 2006
Pit and fissure sealants play an important role in preventive dentistry. Since their introduction to the dental profession in 1967, sealants have been shown to prevent caries in pit and fissures and to arrest undiagnosed caries in non-cavitated pit and fissures. Sealants are usually resin-based composites and quite similar to each other with only minor variations in their method of placement and viscosity. Fuji Triage is a new low-viscosity glass ionomer by GC America. The chemically-setting, fluoride-releasing material is indicated for pit and fissure sealing, for filling of endodontic-access openings and for treatment of non-cavitated lesions. The company claims that the moisture-friendly glass ionomer is ideal for sealing partially-erupted molars and the self-bonding feature allows fewer steps in a shorter amount of time. The high fluoride release of Fuji Triage may be beneficial when used as an intermediate-restorative material in a situation of rampant caries.
Evaluators appreciated Fuji Triage’s ease of mixing and dispensing, and the ease of placement for temporary restorations. The material was less moisture sensitive than other comparable products. Chemical-setting time was reduced by the use of a curing light. Fuji Triage releases fluoride, which can help in situations of rampant caries. The convenient unit-dose capsules and well-written instructions and glossy summary card were well received by evaluators. Lot numbers and expiration dates are printed on individual capsules and the applicator tip is autoclavable.
Users reported difficulties when handling the material during sealant placement, reporting that the viscosity increased rapidly, limiting working time and the ability to flow a small amount of the material into the depths of the pits and fissures. Many operators also objected to the pink color. Some evaluators noted that the bulky dispenser limited access to posterior areas, and many found the material to be too tacky, sticking to instruments. The material demonstrated relatively low diametral tensile strength. The conditioner and varnish called for in the instructions must be purchased separately, and a Material Safety Data Sheet was not provided with the product.
This review has been adapted from the DECS website. The DECS has no formal association with Dentalcompare or with vendors listed on dentalcompare.com. The DECS does not specifically endorse any particular product or vendor and is provided for informational purposes only.
Review Synopsis
Product
Fuji Triage Glass-Ionomer Sealant & Temporary Restorative Material
The Good
Convenient unit-dose capsules. Easy placement for temporaries. Less moisture sensitivity. Releases fluoride.
The Bad
Thick viscosity for a sealant. Pink color may be objectionable. Tacky, sticks to instruments. Bulky dispenser may limit access.
The Bottom Line
A rather difficult to place fluoride-releasing sealant, but an acceptable temporary restorative in convenient unit-dose capsules.