Which sealant material contains fluoride and does not require an etching or bonding agent?

Study for the Dental Assistant State Licensing Examination. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Get ready and succeed on your exam day!

The correct answer is glass ionomers because this material not only contains fluoride, which can help remineralize enamel and provide additional protection against decay, but it also has the unique property of not requiring an etching or bonding agent for adhesion to tooth structure.

Glass ionomer materials bond chemically to the tooth's surface, which allows for an effective seal without prior surface preparation. This characteristic simplifies the application process and makes glass ionomers a favorable option in certain clinical scenarios, particularly for patients with a high caries risk or those who are unable to maintain optimal oral hygiene.

In contrast, composite resins typically require an etching process to enhance adhesion, as they rely on micromechanical retention. Fissure sealants, while they can be made from various materials including resin or glass ionomer, often require an etching step to improve bonding. Composite glass ionomer combines aspects of both glass ionomer and composite resin but may still involve some bonding technique usage. Hence, glass ionomers stand out for their fluoride content and simpler application process.

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