How do self-cured sealants harden?

Self-cured sealants harden through a chemical reaction that occurs when the base material is mixed with a catalyst. This process is known as a self-curing or auto-curing process. The mixing of the base and catalyst initiates a polymerization reaction, leading to the hardening of the sealant without the need for external light sources. This property makes self-cured sealants particularly convenient in dental practices, allowing for a quick application that can set without additional equipment.

Options involving exposure to light pertain to light-cured sealants, where the hardening is activated by a specific wavelength of light. Choices related to cooling or moisture absorption do not accurately describe the hardening mechanism of self-cured sealants, as they rely strictly on the chemical reaction initiated by the catalyst in the mix. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for dental professionals, as it informs them about the application, storage, and handling of various sealant materials used in dental care.