4.2 The Sealant-Application Process
Two-Handed vs. Four-Handed Placement
Two-handed sealant placement is the placement of sealants by a primary operator alone; four-handed placement is the placement of sealants by a primary operator with another person’s assistance. Four-handed sealant placement is associated with higher retention rates. ODH recommends four-handed placement (e.g., having a dental hygienist and a dental assistant place sealants). Following is a detailed explanation of the steps in the sealant-application process
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Four-handed |
Step 1: Tooth Preparation
 Sealant material manufacturers recommend that tooth surfaces be cleaned before acid etching. Demonstrations have shown that sealant retention rates for teeth cleaned with a toothbrush are at least as high as for teeth cleaned with a handpiece. ODH recommends using a toothbrush to clean the surfaces of teeth to be sealed before acid etching.
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