This time of year brings feasts and festivities galore, and sweet treats are enjoyed with fervor. However, there is a lurking concern that this enjoyment may lead to cavities and tooth decay. You may have faced the news that you had a cavity at one point in your life, and you may fear that the same will happen to your little ones.
If you have faced this news in the past, you are likely familiar with the standard treatment of getting a filling. What you may not know of is an alternative treatment for your pearly whites called a dental sealant.
When to Choose Dental Sealants
Sealants are typically recommended for children, but they are for adults as well. They are a preventative measure to protect healthy enamel from harmful particles and bacteria. Sealants are often recommended for individuals who are prone to cavities.
I sealant is a more temporary solution than a filling. Acids, tooth grinding and sticky foods have a tendency to wear them down. Your dentist may recommend this treatment for teeth with deep grooves and for places on the teeth where the enamel layer is thinning.
When to Choose Dental Fillings
Once a tooth has started to decay but plenty of the healthy areas of the tooth remain, your dentist usually recommends a composite filling. Composite fillings are a tooth-colored resin that covers the damaged areas on your teeth, and they are very durable and provide a protective layer. Your dentist will thoroughly clean the decayed area before applying the filling. This is a labor-intensive process, but in the end, you will have a hard-core shield that fights away the harmful particles and bacteria in your mouth.
The Big Difference Between Them
To sum it up, a sealant is a deterrent while a filling is an inhibitor. The condition of your tooth is the primary factor that determines the treatment your dentist recommends. The thought of a cavity is stressful, but knowing about the solutions can give you peace of mind.
If you think you need a dental sealant or dental filling and are in the Mesa, AZ area call us today.