Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

Which of the following indicates a sealant should be applied?

1. Pits and fissures are shallow

2. History of caries in primary or permanent dentition

3. Age over 18

4. Presence of braces

The correct answer is: History of caries in primary or permanent dentition

The rationale for selecting a history of caries in primary or permanent dentition as the correct indication for sealant application lies in the primary purpose of sealants, which is to prevent caries (tooth decay) in vulnerable teeth. A history of caries indicates that an individual is at a greater risk for developing cavities due to previous dental decay. The application of sealants on teeth with deep pits and fissures can help protect them from bacteria and food particles, effectively reducing the risk of future caries. When considering other options, although shallow pits and fissures may not typically require sealant application since they are less prone to trapping debris and bacteria, they do not create a strong justification for applying sealants. An age over 18 generally suggests that the teeth have fully erupted and may no longer require sealants if they have already been applied in childhood; thus, this does not serve as a valid indicator for sealant application. The presence of braces can complicate the orthodontic management but is not a direct indication for sealant application unless there is a specific concern about preventing decay during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, a history of caries directly showcases a preventative need for sealants more robustly than the other options.