Dental Sealants: A Public Health Perspective

ABSTRACT

This article discusses the oral health status of California children, including sealant prevalence, and reasons why sealants are underutilized, including current reimbursement levels. The article also explains similarities and differences between sealant use in private practice versus public health settings, as well as the effectiveness and economic aspects of school-based sealant programs. Finally, the article briefly discusses the advantages of combined topical fluoride and sealant programs in public health settings.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robert Isman

Robert Isman, DDS, MPH, is a dental program consultant with the California Department of Health Care Services, Medi-Cal Dental Services Branch, Rancho Cordova, Calif.