If sodium bicarbonate is used with an air polishing device before sealant placement, what should be applied for neutralization?

When sodium bicarbonate is utilized with an air polishing device, it is important to neutralize its alkaline properties to prevent any adverse effects on the dental materials and tissue during sealant placement. The appropriate neutralization method involves using a mild acid. In this case, 3% hydrogen peroxide is a suitable option as it can effectively neutralize the effects of sodium bicarbonate.

Hydrogen peroxide not only acts as a neutralizing agent but also has disinfectant properties, which can help maintain a clean working environment for the dental procedure. This neutralization process is crucial to ensure that the environment is not overly alkaline, which could affect the adhesion of sealants to the tooth surface.

The other options, such as citric acid, sodium chloride, or acetic acid, are not as ideal for this specific purpose. While citric acid is also an acid and could technically neutralize sodium bicarbonate, the use of hydrogen peroxide is preferable in this context due to its additional benefits in dental applications. Sodium chloride and acetic acid do not provide the same level of neutralization or do not have the desirable properties that make hydrogen peroxide the better choice in this scenario.