Who can apply pit and fissure sealants?

The application of pit and fissure sealants is a procedure that can be performed by both Registered Dental Assistants (RDA) and Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF).

Registered Dental Assistants are specifically trained to assist in various procedures, including the application of pit and fissure sealants, as part of their responsibilities in preventive dentistry. In California, the scope of practice for an RDA includes applying sealants to teeth, making them well-equipped to help prevent dental caries in children and adolescents by sealing the grooves in their molars.

On the other hand, RDAEFs have additional training and certification that allow them to perform more complex procedures. Since RDAEFs are also skilled in the application of pit and fissure sealants, their qualifications overlap with those of RDAs in this context.

Therefore, since both RDAs and RDAEFs are authorized to perform this specific function, it is accurate to conclude that the answer encompasses both types of dental assistants, which is reflected in the correct choice.