1.1 Description and History of Sealant Programs and Program BasicsChildren Who Need Treatment Other Than SealantsWhen assessing the need for sealants, school-based dental sealant programs typically identify children with treatment needs, such as untreated dental caries, and notify these children’s parents and the school nurse. Ensuring that children receive appropriate oral health care may be the most difficult aspect of operating a sealant program. It is common to find that between 30 and 50 percent of children screened need treatment (e.g., restorations, extractions) that is beyond the scope of the program. Ideally, these children would receive treatment at private practices or clinics. In reality, many children who are screened have limited access to oral health care. In addition, some families may place a low priority on seeking oral health care for their children in light of competing demands. Although school-based dental sealant programs provide a health benefit, it is not the same benefit as that provided by dental homes. Sealant programs usually cannot guarantee that the children they serve will receive needed treatment (other than dental sealants). Depending on program resources, programs may use a variety of approaches (e.g., sending notes home, providing transportation to clinics, providing care directly) to help ensure that children receive necessary treatment.
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