Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

Which type of sealants can flow into pits and fissures more easily?

1. Filled resin sealants

2. Unfilled resin sealants

3. Glass ionomer sealants

4. Cured resin sealants

The correct answer is: Unfilled resin sealants

Unfilled resin sealants are specifically designed to have a lower viscosity compared to filled resin sealants, which enables them to flow more readily into the microscopic pits and fissures on the surfaces of teeth. This characteristic is crucial for effective sealing, as sealants must penetrate these irregularities to provide comprehensive coverage and protection against caries (tooth decay). The ability to flow into these pits and fissures allows unfilled resin sealants to create a tighter seal, reducing the likelihood of microleakage and bacterial contamination underneath the sealant. In contrast, filled resin sealants contain particles that give them added strength but increase their viscosity, which may hinder their ability to adequately penetrate these small spaces. Additionally, cured resin sealants have already undergone the polymerization process, making them rigid and less capable of flowing into pits and fissures, while glass ionomer sealants, although they have some flow capacity, are generally less effective than unfilled resin sealants in achieving optimal sealant penetration. Thus, unfilled resin sealants are the ideal choice for effectively sealing pits and fissures due to their flow characteristics.