What material typically undergoes greater thermal expansion than composite resins?

Pit and fissure sealants typically undergo greater thermal expansion than composite resins because of their unique chemical composition and physical properties. Sealants are often made from materials that are less dense and have a lower glass transition temperature compared to composite resins. This characteristic allows them to expand more significantly in response to temperature changes.

Composite resins are designed to have thermal expansion properties that are similar to those of natural tooth structure, which helps to reduce the risk of debonding or sensitivity when subjected to thermal stresses from hot and cold foods or beverages. In contrast, pit and fissure sealants do not possess the same degree of rigidity or structural integrity, leading to greater fluctuations in their dimensions with temperature variations.

Other materials mentioned, such as glass ionomer, gold, and amalgam, generally have lower coefficients of thermal expansion compared to pit and fissure sealants. Gold, in particular, is known for its stability and minimal thermal expansion, making it an excellent choice for restorations where dimensional stability is critical. Amalgam and glass ionomer also have moderate thermal properties but typically do not exhibit the same level of sensitivity to thermal expansion as sealants do. Thus, when considering thermal expansion, pit and fissure sealants stand out due to their