Final answer:
True, small carious lesions can be effectively sealed, stopping the growth of decay-causing bacteria like Streptococcus species, and preserving the tooth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is True. Teeth with very small initial carious lesions may indeed be sealed, and the bacteria responsible for the decay will generally not survive underneath a properly placed sealant. The process of sealing involves filling the initial caries to prevent the further decay of the tooth.
This can be an effective measure to stop the progression of the decay without the need for more invasive procedures such as root canals, which are necessary when the decay reaches the pulp of the tooth. The main bacteria causing this decay is usually of the Streptococcus species, and this method of sealing early lesions can preserve the integrity of the tooth and prevent further complications related to tooth decay.