Though both dental fillings and sealants serve to treat your teeth by sealing off a specific area and are beneficial to oral hygiene, they differ in several ways. The primary function, material, and longevity of dental fillings versus sealants are essential distinctions.
In this article, we’ll go over the main differences between dental fillings and dental sealants. Understanding each is the perfect start if you think you need either procedure.
To schedule dental fillings, sealants, or gentle tooth extractions in Tucson by Smile Perfection, call 520-293-2166 today.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are procedures that restore your teeth following tooth decay. Once the decay erodes your enamel and causes a cavity, or hole, within the tooth, your dentist uses a filling to treat the tooth. The dental filling restores the decayed tooth’s appearance and health.
Process of Dental Fillings
To start, your dentist removes any damaged enamel and cleans out the open area to ensure they can safely insert the filling. Then, your dentist adds the dental filling, which guards against future tooth decay and allows the affected tooth to grow stronger.
Materials for Dental Fillings
There are several different materials for dental fillings. For a tooth located in the back of the mouth, you might opt for a material such as gold or silver amalgam. For a more visible tooth in the front of the mouth, something like porcelain may be more appropriate as it can match the color of your teeth.
Longevity of Dental Fillings
Dentists consider fillings to be permanent. Dental fillings can last anywhere from a couple of years to several decades based on your oral hygiene following the procedure.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a preventative procedure. Children and adults can have deep grooves in their premolars or molars that are difficult to clean. Over time, food, plaque, and oral acids may build up in these crevices and lead to tooth decay.
Process of Dental Sealants
To prevent tooth decay, your dentist applies a dental sealant to the chewing surface of your teeth. The sealant fills the deep grooves and protects against damaging buildup. This helps decrease the likelihood of decay while acting as a guard for your enamel.
Material for Dental Sealants
One significant difference between dental fillings and sealants is that while fillings come in many materials, sealants are plastic. Your dentist applies a liquid plastic into the tooth’s crevice, which hardens under a specialized UV light.
Longevity of Dental Sealants
Because dental sealants are on the surface of the teeth, they don’t last as long as fillings. Though strong, sealants are temporary and will erode over time. A dental sealant should last several years with good oral hygiene before another application is necessary.
Dental Fillings and Sealants from Smile Perfection
If you require dental fillings or sealants in Tucson, Smile Perfection is the place to go. Our trusted dental team will safely and effectively protect or restore your teeth to ensure pristine oral health. Learn about the ways you can get cavities on your front teeth by visiting our website.
Call Smile Perfection at 520-293-2166 for top-quality dental services in Arizona.
