Implications of recommendations for school-based sealant programs

The placement of dental sealants in school-based settings has been questioned by some. Yet, state and local school-based programs provide an important service for at-risk children, who may otherwise lack access to this valuable preventive service. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), working with a Sealant Expert Panel, has developed new recommendations on school-based sealant programs. This presentation will cover: the updated recommendations and the state of the science supporting selected recommendations such as tooth assessment, surface preparation, and evaluation of sealant retention. Findings from a systematic review of the evidence of sealant effectiveness on carious surfaces will be reviewed. Implications for public health policy and practice will be discussed. State and local oral health programs may utilize these recommendations to modify policies and practices integral to their school-based sealant programs.