Question

The dentist has asked you to place dental sealants on teeth #3, #14, #19, and #30. The client's mother asks why these are necessary. All of the following are appropriate responses, EXCEPT one. Which one is the EXCEPTION?

1) Dental sealants help prevent tooth decay and cavities.
2) Teeth #3, #14, #19, and #30 have deep grooves and pits that are prone to decay.
3) The sealants act as a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
4) The dentist recommends sealants for all patients, regardless of their oral health.
5) The client's mother should consult with the dentist for further information.

Answer 1

The incorrect statement among the provided options is that the dentist recommends sealants for all patients, regardless of their oral health. Sealants are recommended based on individual assessment and needs, such as the presence of deep grooves in teeth prone to decay, not as a universal treatment. The correct answer is option 4.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the responses provided is not appropriate when explaining the necessity of dental sealants on teeth #3, #14, #19, and #30. The exception is the statement that 'The dentist recommends sealants for all patients, regardless of their oral health.' This statement is incorrect because the need for dental sealants is based on individual assessment of the teeth structure, risk of decay, and specific oral health conditions, not a universal application for all patients.

Dental sealants are a preventative measure against tooth decay and provide a protective barrier over the chewing surfaces of teeth, which is especially important for teeth with deep grooves and pits. Dental sealants, along with fluoride treatments, good hygiene, and regular dental cleanings, contribute to fewer cavities and less severe dental caries.

Fluoride, specifically, has been shown to rebuild and strengthen tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to the acidic by-products of bacterial metabolism that lead to tooth decay. The client's mother needs to consult with the dentist for further information tailored to her child's specific oral health needs.