Demineralization of resin-sealed enamel by soft drinks in a clinically relevant pH cycling model.

Purpose: To compare the in vitro protective effect of orthodontic sealants on the enamel demineralization under a soft drink-induced erosive challenge.

Methods: The facial surfaces of bovine incisors were sectioned into 5 mm x 4 mm x 4 mm enamel blocks. Specimens were randomly assigned to three surface protection measures: control (exposed enamel), coating with Transbond XT (unfilled resin primer), or coating with Opal Seal (filled and fluoride releasing primer).