Both dental sealants and fillings may seem similar. However, there are critical differences between dental sealants and fillings. Some key points that distinguish these treatments are that:
Sealants are preventive: While dental fillings are necessary to restore a tooth’s health after a cavity or hole caused decay, dental sealants protect teeth from cavities. Dentists place them in areas where cavities are more likely to occur, such as on the molars.
Sealants are thin: Dental sealants are applied to the outside surface of permanent molars as a liquid (having a similar consistency as fingernail polish). The liquid is then hardened or “cured” using a LED blue light. Conversely, dental fillings go inside the tooth and are much bulkier. They are used to help restore a tooth after it has experienced a cavity.
Sealants are temporary: Although dental sealants are an effective option for cavity prevention, they wear away with use. Dentists use them to seal molars, which are responsible for chewing large amounts of food. Generally speaking, dental sealants should last for about five years.