Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

What may be required if filled resin sealants interfere with a patient's bite?

1. A surgical procedure

2. A restorative treatment

3. An occlusal adjustment

4. A cleansing procedure

The correct answer is: An occlusal adjustment

When filled resin sealants interfere with a patient's bite, an occlusal adjustment is necessary to correct the issue. This process involves reshaping or refining the surfaces of the sealant to ensure that the patient’s occlusion—how their teeth come together—functions properly. Sealants are designed to enhance the protective mechanism of teeth, but if they are not properly adjusted after placement, they can extend too high or create pressure points, leading to discomfort while biting. An occlusal adjustment allows the dental professional to carefully remove any excess material from the sealant, thereby optimizing the bite alignment and ensuring that the patient can chew comfortably and effectively. The other options, while related to dental treatments, do not address the specific issue of sealants interfering with occlusion as directly as an occlusal adjustment does. Surgical procedures are invasive and typically not warranted for this type of adjustment, restorative treatments involve more extensive repair or rehabilitation of teeth, and cleansing procedures do not pertain to the necessary correction of a bite issue caused by sealant placement.