Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

What are the two components of self-cured sealant material?

1. Base and water

2. Base and catalyst

3. Base and filler

4. Catalyst and solvent

The correct answer is: Base and catalyst

The two components of self-cured sealant material are the base and catalyst. In self-cured sealants, the base provides the primary material for the sealant, while the catalyst initiates a chemical reaction that causes the sealant to harden. This polymerization process occurs outside of a curing light and allows the material to set and bond to the tooth structure effectively. Understanding the roles of these components is important for dental professionals because it ensures proper handling and application of sealants. The base is typically a resin that provides the necessary viscosity and adhesion properties, while the catalyst ensures that the sealant cures reliably once mixed. The other options do not represent the correct components of self-cured sealant materials. For instance, a combination of base and water would not create the desired properties required for effective sealing, as water can interfere in curing processes. Similarly, base and filler would not provide the catalytic action needed for curing, and a catalyst and solvent combination would not provide structural integrity since solvents generally do not participate in the curing process but may alter consistency.