Guard Your Molars: Why Sealants and Fillings Are a Game-Changer
Written By: Awa Mbye
Supervised & Edited By: Dr. Levy Do, DDS
Cavities are no fun, but the good news is that they’re super preventable! Sealants and fillings are two different options your dentist can use to protect your teeth. They work in different ways, but both assist in keeping your smile looking great.
Fillings
If you already have a cavity, that’s where fillings come in. Fillings are used to fill in the hole left behind after your dentist removes the decayed part of your tooth. The good news is that fillings today are much better than the old silver ones. You can get tooth-colored fillings that blend right in, so no one even knows you had a cavity. They’re durable and help restore your tooth’s strength so you can go back to chewing and smiling without worry.
There are five main types of dental fillings, generally categorized by material: silver amalgam, composite resin (tooth-colored), ceramic (porcelain), glass ionomer, and gold.
Sealants
Sealants are a quick and easy way to stop cavities before they even start. You know those grooves in the back of your teeth? They can be hard to clean, even if you brush well. Sealants cover those grooves, keeping food and bacteria out so cavities can’t form. The process is fast, painless, and can last for years. Plus, it’s especially great for kids and teens who might not be the best at brushing their back teeth.
Which One Do You Need?
If your teeth are healthy, sealants are a great way to protect them from getting cavities in the first place. But if a cavity has already formed, a filling is the way to go. The best plan is to get regular checkups so your dentist can catch any issues early before they become bigger problems.
Show Off Your Smile
In addition to sealants and fillings, brushing and flossing every day is key to keeping your teeth in tip-top shape. Regular dental visits will make sure your teeth stay strong, whether you're preventing cavities or fixing them.
Ready to keep your smile healthy? Schedule an appointment with Pine Cove Dental today and let’s make sure your teeth stay awesome for years to come.