Application of Pit and Fissure Sealants

Question 1

State the criteria for the ideal sealant

Answer 1

• Sound occlusal surfaces of primary and permanent molars

- Noncavitated occlusal lesions of primary and permanent molars

Question 2

Identify how sealants work to prevent caries

Answer 2

Thin plastic resinous coating that acts as a physical barrier to oral bacteria and carbohydrates

The sealant bonds primarily by mechanical retention to the enamel surface and forms a protective layer so that caries-producing bacteria cannot colonize within pits and fissures.

Question 3

Identify patients who would benefit from sealant placement

Answer 3

second and sixth grades because these children are most likely to have newly erupted permanent molars.

Question 4

Describe the indications for the use of dental sealants

Answer 4

Seal sound and noncavitated pit and fissure surfaces of posterior teeth with first and second permanent molars receiving the highest priority.

Question 5

Describe the contraindications for the use of dental sealants.

Answer 5

cavitated lesions are tooth surfaces that have invaded the dentin and cannot biologically repair themselves. These lesions penetrate enamel and/or extend into the underlying dentin and should be treated restoratively.

If there is radiographic evidence of proximal dental caries, then sealant placement in occlusal pits and fissures is contraindicated. The patient must be referred to the dentist to have the tooth restored.

Question 6

Describe the clinical application of sealants

Answer 6

• Clean tooth surface toothbrush prophylaxis is acceptable
• Air abrasion or enameloplasty are not recommended
• can use pumice and slow speed handpeice
• following cleaning tooth must be dried and then etched
• etch comes in liquid, gel, semi gel form
• Use 4 handed technique when feasible
• Seal teeth of children even if follow up evaluation cannot be ensured
• Evaluate sealant retention within 1 year

Question 7

Can a dull explorer, rounded probe, or sharp explorer be used to check a cavitation before sealant

Answer 7

dull explorer and probe

Question 8

The process by which sealants harden is known as

Answer 8

polymerization

Question 9

The properly etched surface will have a ___ ______

Answer 9

chalky appearance

Question 10

The sealant material is then applied into the pits and fissures. Care must be taken not to _____ them. It is also important not to over manipulate the material as doing so can cause ___ to occur.

Answer 10

overfill

bubbles