Dental Sealants and Dental Fillings: What’s the Difference?

Have you heard about dental sealants and dental fillings but are wondering what’s the difference? Well if you are unsure, ask your dentist in Tampa about them. They can help explain the difference to you. In the meantime, we put together a little guide to help give you some basic info on their differences. Check out the three main differences below. If you have any questions, contact our dentists in Tampa to learn more.

Differences Between Dental Sealants and Dental Fillings

1. Material Composition
   Your dentist in Tampa will tell you that one of the biggest differences between sealants and fillings is what they are made up of. Sealants are tooth-colored and plastic that are applied directly to a tooth’s surface. Fillings on the other hand are comprised of silver, zinc, tin, and copper. They can also be a mixture of plastic or glass materials as well. Fillings will either appear silver or tooth-colored depending on the type used.
2. Longevity
   The second big difference is how permanent sealants or fillings are. It actually matters how well you take care of your teeth. Good proper oral hygiene will help extend their lifespan. That being said, fillings are more durable. They are made up of stronger materials and applied in a more involved process to your teeth. Sealants are easily applied by being basically painted on. This is therefore a more temporary fix.
3. Reasons/Application
   So what are the purposes of having sealants or fillings? Well sealants help to prevent tooth decay. This is done by covering up or rather sealing up the grooves of your teeth. This prevents bacteria from producing acid to cause damage. Therefore by sealing up these crevices, your teeth will be protected from cavities. Fillings are more of a fix for when tooth decay is already present in your tooth or teeth. What happens is that your dentist will remove the decay to clean the area. Then, they will paint the filling onto the tooth in order to prevent any further decay or growth of bacteria.

Whatever the reason is for getting a sealant or filling, your dentist will help you. They will determine the best option based on a number of factors. Check out more of our helpful blogs here! Also feel free to contact us for an appointment.