Sealants are used to protect which surfaces from decay-causing bacteria?

• A. Occlusal surfaces
• B. Cervical margins
• C. Buccal surfaces
• D. Lingual surfaces

Answer: (A)

Sealants are a preventive coating applied to the chewing surfaces to keep bacteria and plaque from getting into the deep grooves where decay starts. The occlusal surfaces of back teeth have pits and fissures that trap food and microbes, and these grooves are hard to clean completely with brushing. By sealing these grooves, the surface becomes smooth and resistant to plaque acids, making decay much less likely. That’s why the occlusal surfaces are the best target for sealants. Cervical margins near the gumline don’t have the deep pits and fissures sealants are designed for, and the buccal and lingual surfaces are generally smoother and less prone to this specific type of decay, so they’re not the primary focus for sealants.