Sealant Application and Polishing Flashcards

Which type of pit and fissure sealant requires a curing light to polymerize?

Answer: Light-cured (photopolymerized) sealant

Light-cured sealants contain a photoinitiator that activates only when exposed to a curing light of the appropriate wavelength.

What is the primary purpose of applying a conditioner (etchant) before sealant placement?

Answer: To create microporosities in enamel for mechanical retention

Acid etching creates microscopic pores in the enamel that allow resin tags to form, providing mechanical retention for the sealant.

A patient returns six months after sealant placement and the sealant appears partially missing. What is the MOST likely cause?

Answer: Moisture contamination occurred during the bonding step

Moisture contamination is the most common cause of sealant failure because saliva or water disrupts the bond between the etched enamel and resin.

When evaluating sealant integrity at a recall appointment, which instrument is most appropriate?

Answer: Explorer

A sharp explorer is used to assess sealant retention by checking for voids, gaps, or areas where the sealant can be displaced.

Which teeth are considered the BEST candidates for pit and fissure sealants?

Answer: Permanent molars with deep occlusal pits and fissures

Permanent molars with deep, narrow pits and fissures are the highest-risk sites for caries and the best candidates for sealant placement.

How long should phosphoric acid etchant typically remain on enamel before rinsing?

Answer: 15–30 seconds

Phosphoric acid is applied for 15–30 seconds on permanent enamel to achieve adequate microporosity without over-etching.

After rinsing the etchant, properly etched enamel should appear:

Answer: Chalky white or frosted

Correctly etched enamel takes on a chalky white, frosted appearance due to the removal of surface mineral content creating microporosities.