What term describes a protective material placed in pits and fissures to prevent decay?

• A. Fluoride varnish
• B. Dental sealant
• C. Prophylaxis paste
• D. Desensitizer

Answer: (B)

Pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces are deep, irregular grooves where plaque and bacteria can hide and promote decay. A sealant is a protective resin placed into those grooves and cured to form a smooth barrier that blocks food, plaque, and bacteria from entering. This targeted barrier directly prevents decay in the pits and fissures, making it the best choice for this purpose. Fluoride varnish helps protect enamel more generally by remineralizing it, not by sealing grooves. Prophylaxis paste is used for cleaning teeth, not for preventing decay in grooves. A desensitizer reduces sensitivity and doesn’t seal pits and fissures.