Which dental material has the highest coefficient of thermal expansion on average?

The dental material with the highest coefficient of thermal expansion on average is pit and fissure sealants. This characteristic is significant because it means that pit and fissure sealants expand and contract more than other dental materials when subjected to temperature changes.

The thermal expansion property is crucial in dental materials, particularly those used in restorations and sealants, as it affects the integrity and durability of the bond between the material and the tooth structure. High thermal expansion can lead to microleakage or debonding, potentially compromising the longevity of the treatment.

While composite resins and amalgam also exhibit thermal expansion, they generally have lower coefficients compared to sealants. Gold, known for its stability and excellent mechanical properties, has an even lower coefficient of thermal expansion, making it an ideal material for crown and bridge applications where thermal stability is required. Therefore, understanding the thermal expansion properties of these materials helps in selecting the appropriate material for specific dental applications.