Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

Which component is often found in resin-based sealants?

1. Polyethylene glycol

2. Bisphenol A

3. Fluoride

4. Calcium carbonate

The correct answer is: Bisphenol A

Resin-based sealants commonly contain Bisphenol A (BPA) as a critical component. BPA is part of the chemical structure of many types of resins used in dental materials, particularly in sealants, composite resins, and adhesives due to its effectiveness in creating strong and durable bonds. The incorporation of BPA aids in providing the desired physical properties and performance of the sealant, including its resistance to wear and ability to adhere efficiently to tooth surfaces. Although other components like fluoride and calcium carbonate can be present in some dental materials, they serve different purposes. Fluoride is typically added to provide caries resistance, while calcium carbonate often acts as a filler or an abrasives but does not provide the bonding properties essential for resin performance. Polyethylene glycol is not related to the composition of resin-based sealants and is more common in other types of dental materials or applications unrelated to sealants. Thus, focusing on the resin-based composition establishes why Bisphenol A is a defining element that contributes to the performance of these sealants in dentistry.