Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

Who should NOT typically receive sealants?

1. Children with a high risk of cavities

2. Teens with frequent dental issues

3. Individuals with existing dental restorations

4. Adults with healthy teeth

The correct answer is: Individuals with existing dental restorations

The reasoning for identifying individuals with existing dental restorations as those who should not typically receive sealants revolves around the intended purpose and the effectiveness of sealants. Sealants are primarily used to prevent cavities in the deep grooves and pits of teeth, particularly in those who are at a higher risk for dental caries. When a tooth has already been restored, it generally means that the tooth has been treated for a previous cavity or issue. In such cases, the grooves and pits have been altered or covered by the restoration material, which makes the application of a sealant unnecessary and ineffective. The primary function of a sealant is to protect the tooth surface from decay, but if that surface is already covered by a restoration, the sealant cannot serve its purpose. In contrast, groups such as children with a high risk of cavities, teens who experience frequent dental issues, and adults with healthy teeth are appropriate candidates for sealant application. These individuals have either unblemished molar surfaces likely to accumulate food particles or have a high likelihood of developing cavities, making sealants a beneficial preventive measure. Thus, the decision to avoid applying sealants to individuals with existing restorations is based on the need for the sealants to be effective in preventing further decay in