National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

True or False: Teeth with small initial carious lesions can be sealed effectively.

1. True

2. False

3. Only with special treatment

4. They cannot be sealed

The correct answer is: True

The statement that teeth with small initial carious lesions can be sealed effectively is true. When a dentist identifies early-stage carious lesions, commonly referred to as incipient caries, sealing these areas can be an effective preventive measure. The sealants are typically made from a resin material and are applied to the occlusal surfaces of teeth, especially molars, where such early lesions often begin. Sealing these small carious lesions helps to prevent further decay by creating a barrier that isolates the affected area from the oral environment. This can halt the progression of the cavity while also providing protection against further bacterial involvement. In cases where the caries has not progressed significantly into the dentin, sealants serve as a proactive approach to dental health, potentially avoiding the need for more invasive treatments in the future. It's important to note that this approach is most effective when the lesions are detected early, as more advanced carious lesions may require additional treatment methods, such as restorations. Therefore, sealing small initial carious lesions is a widely accepted practice in preventive dentistry.