Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

Approximately what percentage of low-income children have sealants?

1. 10%

2. 20%

3. 30%

4. 40%

The correct answer is: 30%

The selection of 30% as the approximate percentage of low-income children who have sealants aligns with data from various public health studies and dental health reports. Sealants are preventive dental treatments applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars) to prevent cavities, and they are particularly important for low-income children who may have limited access to regular dental care. Research has shown that low-income children are at a higher risk for dental caries due to various factors such as inadequate dental care, nutritional challenges, and socioeconomic barriers. Therefore, initiatives promoting sealant programs in schools and community health settings aim to improve access to these preventive measures among vulnerable populations. While the figures can vary by region and specific studies, 30% is a reasonable approximation based on national averages and reporting. In comparison, the other percentages like 10%, 20%, and 40% either underestimate or overestimate the prevalence based on available data on dental health interventions in low-income communities.