Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

Compared to unfilled resin sealants, filled resin sealants are more what?

1. Durable

2. Wear-resistant

3. Flexible

4. Cost-effective

The correct answer is: Wear-resistant

Filled resin sealants are more wear-resistant compared to unfilled resin sealants due to the presence of additional filler materials in their composition. These fillers enhance the physical properties of the sealant, resulting in a product that can better withstand the forces exerted during chewing and grinding. This increased wear resistance is particularly important in preserving the integrity of the sealant and the dental structure beneath it, as it contributes to a longer-lasting seal that is more effective in preventing caries in pit and fissure areas of the teeth. While durability is also certainly a consideration in the overall performance of sealants, wear resistance specifically targets the ability to endure mechanical stress and abrasion over time. This trait makes filled resin sealants particularly advantageous in high-stress areas of the mouth, where the sealant must endure significant forces without breaking down. Flexibility and cost-effectiveness are considerations as well, but the defining characteristic that sets filled resin sealants apart from their unfilled counterparts is their improved resistance to wear.