Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of dental sealants?
to prevent dental carries in the pits and fissures
Why are pits and fissures susceptible to caries?
they do not benefit from fluoride and is too small for even one toothbrush bristle
Should sealants be the only preventive measure used?
False
What are the two types of polymerization?
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Why is clear sealant material less desirable?
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Is there a difference in retention rates between filled and unfilled sealants?
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What is the reason for putting fluoride in dental sealant material?
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What is the range of shield life of sealant materials?
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What are two patient safety precautions to keep in mind when one is using sealants?
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What determines the effectiveness of dental sealants?
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Study Notes
Dental Sealants Overview
- Dental sealants prevent dental caries by protecting the pits and fissures of teeth.
- Pits and fissures are prone to decay as they do not receive fluoride protection and are too small for toothbrush bristles to clean effectively.
Preventive Measures
- Sealants should not be the sole preventive measure against dental caries; they should be part of a comprehensive oral health strategy.
Types of Polymerization
- Two types of polymerization for dental sealants are:
- Self-cured polymerization: Allows sealant to harden without light.
- Light-cured polymerization: Requires an activator light for solidification.
Sealant Materials
- Tinted sealant materials are preferred over clear materials for better visibility during application.
- Filled sealants are more effective than unfilled ones due to lower wear rates on occlusal surfaces.
Fluoride in Sealants
- Adding fluoride to dental sealants can facilitate the formation of a fluoride-rich layer at the base, assisting in the remineralization of early enamel lesions.
Sealant Longevity
- The functional lifespan of dental sealants typically ranges from 18 to 36 months.
Patient Safety Precautions
- Avoid using dental sealants on patients with known acrylate allergies.
- Take care to avoid uncured resin exposure to ensure patient safety.
Effectiveness Factors
- The effectiveness of dental sealants is primarily determined by the retention of the sealant material on the tooth surface.
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Description
Test your knowledge of dental sealants and their role in preventing dental caries. This quiz covers types of polymerization, material preferences, and the incorporation of fluoride in sealants. Enhance your understanding of effective oral health strategies with this quiz.
