Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

What should be used to aggressively check the margins of the sealant?

1. Explorer

2. Mirror

3. Scalpel

4. Toothbrush

The correct answer is: Explorer

An explorer is the appropriate tool to use for aggressively checking the margins of the sealant. This specialized dental instrument has a sharp, pointed tip that allows the clinician to assess the integrity and adherence of the sealant to the tooth surface effectively. Using an explorer, the dental professional can examine the margins for any imperfections or areas where the sealant may need to be reapplied or adjusted. The explorer's design is ideal for this purpose, as it can effectively navigate the small and intricate areas of the tooth, ensuring a thorough evaluation. Other tools, such as a mirror, play a supportive role in visualizing the area but do not provide tactile feedback regarding the sealant's adhesion. A scalpel is used for cutting and is not suitable for this assessment, and while a toothbrush can help in cleaning, it does not assess the margins but rather contributes to hygiene maintenance. Thus, the explorer is distinctly more equipped for the task at hand, making it the best choice.