California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Written Practice Exam

In the context of dental sealants, filled and unfilled sealants serve different purposes when it comes to their composition and intended use. Filled sealants contain added particulate material, which increases their viscosity and can enhance their resistance to wear and tear. This added material often contributes to higher strength and wear properties, making filled sealants better suited for areas subject to higher occlusal forces, such as molars.

Unfilled sealants, on the other hand, have a lower viscosity and are generally easier to flow into small pits and fissures on the tooth surface. While they may be preferred for ease of application, their wear resistance and retention may not be as robust as that of filled sealants when subjected to the same forces.

The question regarding retention rates suggests that there is not a significant difference in how well filled and unfilled sealants stay bonded to the tooth over time, indicating that both can be effective. Retention is influenced by factors such as the bonding agent used, the technique of application, and the specific oral environment.

Ultimately, understanding the characteristics of both types can guide the clinician in selecting the appropriate sealant for individual patient needs and the specific tooth surfaces being treated.