While the use of dental sealants is recognized as a cost-effective and proven method of reducing the incidence of dental caries in high-risk populations, sealant use in California remains low, especially among low-income children who have the highest risk of developing tooth decay.

The [removed]California Dental Association (CDA)[/removed], Sacramento, Calif, devoted its [removed]October issue[/removed] of the Journal of the California Dental Association to evidence-based recommendations intended to help dental and orthodontic professionals make sealant recommendations to patients, make placement decisions, and increase use.

This issue of the journal includes information on the science related to sealant application, a comparison of types of sealant materials available, tooth preparation, and the use of adhesives prior to sealant placement. The information is based on the ADA’s 2008 sealant guidelines. The journal also includes prevention and management protocols based on caries risk assessment.

"Dental sealants can reduce the incidence of tooth decay in school children by more than 70%," said Paul Reggiardo, DDS, chair of the CDA Policy Development Council’s 2008 Sealant Workgroup. "The Journal’s recommendations give oral health care providers effective guidelines on the utilization and placement of sealants."  

The CDA also has published a new dental sealant resource[removed] fact sheet and patient education flyer[/removed]. The fact sheet is printed in multiple languages and contains information about the benefits of sealants, which are proven to be the most effective method of reducing cavities in children.