Dry-Shield vs Rubber Dam During Fissure Sealant Placement

This randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficiency of the Dry-Shield isolation system compared with rubber dam isolation and cotton roll isolation during fissure sealant application in permanent molars among pediatric patients. The study evaluates chairside time, patient preference, and fissure sealant retention rates after 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Proper isolation during fissure sealant application is considered essential for optimal retention and long-term clinical success. The study also aims to assess whether Dry-Shield can provide a practical and comfortable alternative to conventional isolation techniques in pediatric dentistry.

Inclusion Criteria: A- Patient inclusion criteria: 1. Cooperative, apparently healthy children. 2. Each child had at least three fully erupted first and/or second permanent molars. 3. Patient being at high risk of dental caries. 4. Informed consent was filled before treatment. B- Molar inclusion criteria: 1. Tooth had deep pits and fissures. 2. Molars with the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) score 0-2. 3. All three molars required PFS. Exclusion Criteria: A- Patient exclusion criteria: 1. Uncooperative children. 2. Children with special needs. 3. Children who required emergency dental care (draining sinus, abscess and cellulitis). 4. Who were suffering from an allergy to latex or a severe gag reflex. 5. Mouth breather or child with nasal obstruction. 6. Children with fixed orthodontic. B- Molar exclusion criteria: 1. Previous restored or carious first or second permanent molars. 2. Molars with anomalies of the enamel or dentin.