Which population is most at risk for caries and may benefit from sealants?

Children and adolescents with poor oral hygiene are recognized as the population most at risk for caries and can significantly benefit from the application of sealants. This is primarily because the molars of children and adolescents have deep pits and fissures that are often difficult to clean thoroughly with regular brushing. When oral hygiene practices are lacking, these areas become susceptible to plaque accumulation and subsequent decay.

Sealants serve as a preventive measure by providing a physical barrier, effectively sealing off these grooves from plaque, food particles, and bacteria that contribute to the development of cavities. By applying sealants to the teeth of this demographic, dental professionals aim to minimize their caries risk and support better long-term oral health outcomes.

In contrast, adults with healthy oral hygiene typically maintain good oral health, reducing their caries risk, while older adults with dry mouth may struggle with increased cavity risk due to reduced saliva flow but are not the most at-risk group overall. Pregnant women, although they may experience cravings that affect dietary choices, do not typically fall into the high-risk category for caries related to the factors that make sealant application most beneficial.

Thus, focusing on children and adolescents with inadequate oral hygiene aligns directly with the preventive goals of sealant placement and the need to combat