The aim of this case report and in vitro investigation was to evaluate the marginal microleakage of intact occlusal
calculus of primary molars extracted from a special needs patient who received nutrition via a
gastric feeding tube. An adolescent with a history of developmental disturbance presented for routine
dental care in a hospital facility. Prophylaxis was performed, and 2 mandibular permanent molars were restored. Five primary molars were extracted due to mobility and delayed retention. Heavy deposits of intact
calculus were present on the occlusal surfaces of the primary teeth. The extracted teeth were immersed in
methylene blue dye solution, invested in
acrylic resin, sectioned into blocks, and photographed at 20× and 40× magnification. Previously photographed
calculus-free molars with
pit and fissure sealants were reviewed and served as contrasting "restorations." The occlusal
calculus on the primary teeth extracted from the patient absorbed the
dye, while the comparison teeth containing
pit and fissure sealants exhibited varying degrees of marginal
dye penetration (microleakage). No marginal microleakage was noted in the
calculus specimens, indicating that this substrate may serve as a "natural" occlusal surface sealant and that its removal from occlusal surfaces during routine oral prophylaxis may be unnecessary.