Pit and Fissure Sealants

ANSI/ADA Standard No. 39 Executive Summary

What is ANSI/ADA Standard No. 39 about?

This standard gives requirements and test methods for acceptable physical properties of resin-based materials used in sealing pits and fissures in teeth. It also gives the requirements for what information needs to be provided to the consumer on the labeling and packaging of the products for informed decision making. The standard covers both chemically cured and light cured resin-based sealants.

What are the requirements I should know about for pit and fissure sealants?

ANSI/ADA Standard No. 39 sets the following physical requirements to ensure the adequate clinical performance of these materials:

  • Working time
    At least 40 seconds after mixing
  • Setting time
    No greater than 5 minutes
  • Depth of cure
    No less than 1.5 mm

What's the bottom line?

ANSI/ADA Standard No. 39 helps ensure safety and efficacy in the use of resin-based materials used as pit and fissure sealants in the mouth.