Sealant vs Filling: Key Differences Explained
According to the CDC, around 20% of adults aged 20-64 have at least one untreated cavity. Over 10% of children aged 2-5 have more than one untreated cavity in their baby teeth.
Tooth decay is a big problem, yet many people don’t fully understand how to prevent and treat it. Cavities can lead to pain, infections, and even tooth loss.
You might be wondering about the difference between a sealant vs. filling. Both are common dental procedures, but they serve very different purposes.
Knowing how they differ can help you choose the best option for you or your child. Let’s dive into the key differences.
What Is a Dental Sealant?
It is a thin layer put on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, mainly molars. These teeth have deep grooves where food and bacteria can get trapped. Sealants help protect teeth from decay by sealing those grooves.
The process is quick and painless. It doesn’t require drilling or anesthesia. Sealants are often used for tooth decay prevention.
They help stop cavities from forming in the first place. Sealants are a simple and effective way to keep teeth healthy and avoid future problems.
Who Is the Treatment For?
Sealants are great for children and teenagers, as their molars are at high risk for cavities. Adults with healthy teeth can also benefit from sealants. Sealants protect teeth that are at risk of decay but haven’t developed cavities yet.
If you already have cavities, sealants aren’t a solution. You’ll need fillings to restore the damaged teeth.
What to Expect
Getting sealants is a quick and easy process. The dentist will clean the teeth first. Then, an acidic liquid goes on the tooth to help the sealant stick.
After that, the sealant is painted onto the tooth. A special light hardens it. The whole process is painless and only takes a few minutes.
If your child feels scared, try these:
- Talk about the visit
- Bring their favorite toy
- Let them sit on your lap
- Play calming music
- Praise them after
Helping your child feel calm can make the visit smoother for everyone. It can help encourage them to make regular dental visits in the future.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
You might wonder whether sealants are really necessary, especially if you don’t have cavities. Getting them can:
- Block food and germs
- Lower cavity risk
- Protect chewing surfaces
- Save money over time
- Avoid painful treatments
To get the best result, find a competent dentist like Justice Dental in Lexington, KY. We will check your teeth first. We’ll make sure your teeth are ready for sealants.
They also use the right tools to apply the sealant well. A skilled dentist can help sealants last longer and work better. Good care at the start makes a big difference later.
What Is a Dental Filling?
It helps in repairing a tooth that has been harmed by decay. The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth. They then clean the space and fill it with a special material.
Composite resin is a common choice because it matches the tooth’s color. The filling brings back the tooth’s shape and strength. It also stops more decay from happening.
Fillings help you chew better and avoid tooth pain. They also guard against infection.
Some fillings can also help fix small gaps in teeth. Getting a filling early can save your tooth and keep your smile healthy.
Who Is the Treatment For?
Fillings are for anyone with a cavity. If your tooth has decay, you need a filling. Fillings fix the hole and stop the damage from spreading.
They work for both kids and adults. A dentist will check your tooth and remove the decay first. Then, they will fill the space to protect your tooth.
A filling is only used when decay is already there. You cannot use it to stop a cavity before it starts.
Treating cavities early keeps your teeth strong and healthy. Waiting too long can cause more pain and problems.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Even if you have a cavity, you might feel unsure about getting a dental filling. The tooth may not hurt yet, so it feels safe to wait.
But over time, the cavity can grow and cause problems like:
- Tooth pain
- Infection
- Tooth loss
- Bad breath
A filling stops decay from spreading. It also keeps the tooth strong and safe. Composite fillings match your tooth color, so they look natural.
Fillings last a long time and help you avoid bigger dental bills later. That’s one of the key filling costs and benefits to think about. But many cavities start small and are hard to spot.
You may not even know they’re there. Seeing a dentist like Justice Dental in Lexington, KY, often helps catch them early. When caught early, getting a filling becomes quick, simple, and painless.
Maintaining Dental Fillings
To keep fillings strong, brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush. Floss between your teeth to remove food and plaque.
Stay away from hard and sticky foods. They can crack or pull out the filling.
If you feel pain or notice pressure, call your dentist right away. Your filling may become loose or worn down.
Fillings do not last forever. They can break or fall out over time.
That’s why regular dental check-ups by an expert like Justice Dental in Lexington, KY, matter. Your dentist will check the filling and fix it if needed.
Early care prevents more problems later. A good filling helps your tooth stay strong and useful. Take care of it like you do the rest of your teeth.
Sealant vs. Filling: Which One Do You Need?
You may wonder about sealant vs. filling and which one your teeth really need. A sealant helps stop decay before it starts. A filling repairs damage caused by decay.
A dentist can guide you on what fits best. At Justice Dental in Lexington, KY, we offer expert care you can trust. Our dentists, like Dr. Laura Justice, bring over 30 years of experience in cosmetic dentistry. We use top tools and gentle care to protect your smile. Come see us – we’re here to help you choose the right option with comfort and confidence.
