Purpose: The purpose of this clinical study was to compare the patient preference for and the time of sealant placement using the isolite system (IS) vs cotton roll isolation (CRI).
Methods: A convenience sample of children whose mean age was 9.0(+/-2.3) years was selected. Sealants were placed bilaterally on the permanent first molars randomizing IS and CRI, with patients acting as their own control. The time for dental sealant placement was recorded. Additionally, the participants were asked to rate each method.
Results: In 48 subjects (25 females and 23 males), the mean time was 398 (+/-115) and 340 (+/-71) seconds for CRI and IS, respectively (P< or =.01). Ratings varied regarding taste, discomfort, and preference.
Conclusions: This study's results suggest that: (1) sealant application time may be decreased with the isolite system vs cotton roll isolation; (2) minor discomfort may be associated with the isolite system; and (3) there is no preference for the isolite system or cotton roll isolation.