Sealants Research Paper

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Pages: 3

Sealant Reflection Paper
By: Mariah Leaman

I would like to begin by saying that sealants are an amazing invention. They are scientifically recognized as one of the best caries prevention methods known worldwide. This is especially true for the protection of occlusal pits and fissures of both the permanent and primary dentition (Harris, 274). Looking back at my experience with placing sealants this semester, I have many thoughts that I would like to share. First of all, it has been shown that the development of pit and fissure decay begins in the early periods of life, so children and adolescents are clear candidates for sealants, this does not however mean that adults aren’t great candidates as well
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I told her about the retention rate and that they are proven to be significantly effective against decay for as long as the sealant remains intact and on the tooth surface. I also mentioned that they are shown to last for up to ten years and that they should be evaluated regularly by her dentist (Harris, 282). One weakness that I noticed was my ability to place the sealants quickly. For the most part I did well; however, I know that there is room for improvement and I do believe that is something that will come with experience. A strength that I feel I had with placing the sealants was my ability to keep the sealant thin, yet effective, with no bubbles or alterations to the bite as it should be for a well placed sealant (Hayes, 2011). At first, when I was asked which teeth I would like to place sealants on I requested the mandibular premolars, thinking those would be easiest. I was then told to do the maxillary molars. I was hesitant about doing maxillary teeth because it would be more of a challenge but upon completion it proved to have been much better practice for me to gain experience with. I had a great experience placing sealants and I had an excellent patient who responded well to the sealant placements. I definitely feel more comfortable placing sealants now than I did before, especially since I was able to practice on the teeth that I was most nervous about in the first