Ciudad Nezahualcoyotl

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of three different preventive methods to reduce coronal caries in the first permanent molars of Mexican schoolchildren aged 6 to 8 years. The study aims to determine which method is best at preventing caries: fluoride varnish alone, a conventional glass ionomer pit and fissure sealant combined with fluoride varnish, or a pit and fissure sealant using Giomer4 technology. This randomized, controlled clinical trial will follow participants over 24 months to compare the incidence of caries and help guide future dental prevention programs. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: the control group receiving biannual fluoride varnish applications; a second group receiving a glass ionomer sealant plus fluoride varnish; and a third group receiving a sealant with Giomer4 technology. All children will also receive oral health education covering dental care, caries prevention, and hygiene practices. Preventive treatments will be administered following manufacturer instructions, and assessments will be done at the start and every 6 months up to 24 months. During the study, clinical oral examinations and interviews will be conducted to assess caries presence, dental biofilm, and changes in knowledge and habits among children and their parents. Caries risk will be assessed before treatment, including only those with moderate or high risk. Follow-up exams will use standardized caries detection methods, and multiple examiners will evaluate caries progression. The main outcome measured is the incidence of coronal caries lesions after 24 months of follow-up.