Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

What is the risk associated with using glass ionomer as a sealant material?

1. Excessive wear

2. Fracture

3. Discoloration

4. Inadequate adhesion

The correct answer is: Fracture

The risk associated with using glass ionomer as a sealant material primarily pertains to fracture. Glass ionomer sealants, while providing certain advantages such as adhesion to enamel and the release of fluoride, can be more brittle compared to other sealant materials. This brittleness can lead to fractures, particularly if the tooth is subjected to significant occlusal forces during functional activities such as chewing. Understanding the mechanical properties of different sealant materials is essential for selecting the appropriate one for various clinical situations. When using glass ionomer sealants, clinicians must consider the specific use case, as their mechanical limitations can affect their longevity and effectiveness in protecting teeth from caries. While other issues like excessive wear, discoloration, and inadequate adhesion may also be concerns to varying extents with sealant materials, fracture stands out as the primary risk inherent in the properties of glass ionomer, influencing its application in restorative dentistry.