Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

How do unfilled resin sealants behave during application?

1. They flow more easily

2. They harden instantly

3. They appear cloudy

4. They become brittle

The correct answer is: They flow more easily

Unfilled resin sealants are designed to have a specific viscosity that allows them to flow easily during the application process. This flowability is essential as it enables the sealant to fill in the pits and fissures of the tooth effectively, ensuring a thorough seal. The smooth and easy application helps in achieving a complete coverage over the surfaces, reducing the likelihood of gaps that might compromise the effectiveness of the seal. Furthermore, the flow characteristics of unfilled resin sealants make them adaptable to the contours of the tooth, allowing for better penetration into the micro-anatomy of the pits and fissures. This aids in maximizing the protective benefit against decay. In contrast, options regarding hardening instantly, appearing cloudy, or becoming brittle describe behaviors that do not accurately reflect the characteristics of unfilled resin sealants during their application. This context further reinforces why the choice indicating that they flow more easily is the correct response regarding the application of unfilled resin sealants.