Sealant application, fluoride therapy types, and caries risk assessment concepts for dental hygienists.
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- What is the primary purpose of a dental sealant?
- To protect the pits and fissures of teeth from decay-causing bacteria and food debris
- Which tooth surfaces are sealants most commonly applied to?
- The occlusal (chewing) surfaces of posterior teeth
- What material is most commonly used for dental sealants?
- Resin-based composite material
- Besides resin, what other material can be used as a dental sealant?
- Glass ionomer
- What advantage does glass ionomer sealant have over resin sealant?
- It releases fluoride and is more tolerant of moisture during placement
- What solution is typically used to etch enamel before sealant placement?
- Phosphoric acid
- Why is enamel etched before sealant application?
- To roughen the enamel surface and create micro-porosities for sealant retention
- What does properly etched enamel look like?
- A dull, frosty white appearance
- Why is moisture control critical during sealant placement?
- Contamination with saliva or moisture causes poor bonding and early sealant failure
- What isolation method is often preferred for sealant placement to maximize a dry field?
- A rubber dam
- How are most modern sealants hardened after placement?
- With a visible light curing unit
- Which teeth are the highest priority for sealant placement?
- The first and second permanent molars
- At approximately what age do first permanent molars typically erupt and become candidates for sealants?
- Around 6 to 7 years old
- At approximately what age do second permanent molars typically erupt and become candidates for sealants?
- Around 11 to 14 years old
- When should placed sealants be checked for retention?
- At routine dental recall visits