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Dentist in Mikulteo Explains Difference Between Sealants & Fillings

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cites cavities as “one of the most unmet health treatment needs,” visiting our dentist in Mikulteo at least every six months is one way to battle tooth decay effectively.

While Driftwood Dental offers many different types of cavity treatment, dental sealants and dental fillings are terms that often need clarification. The truth is that both procedures are vastly different and serve unique purposes. In this blog, Dr. Rebecca Butler differentiates the main differences between sealants and fillings.

Purpose

To put it simply, dental sealants are a preventative measure used to keep cavities from forming in the first place, while fillings are used to restore teeth that have already suffered damage from decay. 

  • Sealants are made of a transparent or tooth-colored coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of teeth to create a barrier that seals out decay-causing bacteria. They are commonly used on the back teeth, which are harder to reach with a toothbrush and, therefore, more prone to cavities.
  • Fillings, on the other hand, are used to repair teeth that already have a cavity. With a dental filling, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and replaced with a filling material that restores the tooth's shape and function.

Preparation

Dental sealants and dental fillings are two procedures that serve different purposes when it comes to preserving the health of our teeth. 

  • Sealants are a preventive measure used to protect teeth from developing cavities. Unlike dental fillings, our dentist in Mikulteo doesn’t have to remove any enamel.
  • Fillings treat a cavity that has already formed. Before the filling material can be applied, the decayed tissue must first be removed.

Procedure

While both procedures involve protecting your teeth or repairing tooth decay, they differ in both their application. 

  • Sealants are applied directly to the teeth. Our dentist in Mikulteo applies a thin layer of plastic material over the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent bacteria and food particles from getting stuck in the grooves and potentially causing cavities.
  • Fillings involve removing the damaged portion of the tooth and filling the area with a durable material such as composite resin.

Visit Our Dentist in Mikulteo for Sealants, Fillings, or Both

Both dental sealants and fillings are essential tools in maintaining good oral health, and your dentist can help you determine which is right for you. At Driftwood Dental, Dr. Butler strives to provide the highest quality care and services in a warm, inviting environment. Our dentist in Mikulteo understands how vital oral hygiene and overall health are as they have an immense impact on quality of life. That's why we're committed to making top-of-the-line dentistry services available to everyone.

From your initial consultation through treatments such as dental fillings, dental sealants, or both, our experienced dentist will equip you with everything you need for a healthy, show-stopping smile! Contact us now if you'd like to discuss the available services or set up an appointment. We look forward to working with you soon!

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