Sealants are most commonly placed on which tooth surfaces?

• A. Buccal surfaces of incisors
• B. Occlusal surfaces of molars and premolars
• C. Lingual surfaces of molars
• D. Incisal edges of canines

Answer: (B)

Sealants protect pits and fissures on chewing surfaces. They are most effective when applied to the occlusal surfaces of molars and premolars because these teeth harbor deep grooves where plaque accumulates and caries commonly begin. Sealing these fissures creates a smooth barrier that prevents bacteria from colonizing in those grooves and makes brushing more effective. Surfaces like buccal surfaces of incisors, lingual surfaces of molars, or incisal edges of canines don’t have the same pattern of deep pits and fissures, so sealants aren’t routinely indicated there. Sealants are often placed soon after eruption of the first permanent molars to maximize protection during the years of highest caries risk.