Dental fillings are one of the most common dental procedures that dentists perform. They are used to repair damaged teeth due to decay or trauma. Fillings help restore the function and appearance of the affected tooth, preventing further decay and potential tooth loss. However, not all fillings are created equal. There are various types of dental fillings available, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Before visiting a dental filling near you, it’s important to understand the different forms of fillings.
Types of Dental Fillings
1. Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, commonly known as silver fillings, are still today one of the most commonly used types of dental fillings after more than the last 150 years. They consist of a mixture of metals: silver, tin, copper, and mercury. The mercury serves as a binding agent for the other metals. Amalgam fillings are strong and durable, making them suitable for use in molars and other teeth that endure a lot of chewing force. Amalgam fillings can last up to 10-15 years with proper care.
2. Composite Fillings
Composite fillings, known as tooth-colored or white fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles. They are usually chosen for front teeth, as they can be adjusted to match the color of one’s natural teeth. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing additional support and strength.
3. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings come both inlays and onlays and are made from a mixture of gold and other metals. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory and then cemented into site. Gold fillings are extremely durable and can last up to 20 years or more. They are well-tolerated by the body and do not cause any allergic reactions.
4. Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings, officially named porcelain inlays / onlays, are a mixture together with porcelain and other materials. They are specifically made in a laboratory and bonded onto the affected tooth. Ceramic fillings are aesthetically pleasing as they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Ceramic fillings are biocompatible and do not cause any allergic reactions.
Different Dental Filling Materials
1. Metal Fillings
Metal fillings have been used for many decades and have known strength and durability, but they are also inexpensive compared to other types of fillings. However, amalgam fillings contain mercury, which has raised concerns about safety risks from mercury. Gold fillings are well tolerated by the body; however, they are the most expensive type of filling available.
2. Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are composed of plastic and glass particles that can be color-matched to blend with your tooth. It adheres directly to the tooth structure, which also gives additional strength and support. However, it is not as durable as a metal filling, and often more frequent replacements are required.
3. Ceramic Fillings
They are made from a mixture of porcelain and other materials, which is highly resistant to staining and discoloration. They can be matched to the color of your natural teeth as well, thus aesthetically pleasing. They are, however, more expensive than composite fillings and might not be applicable for use in molars or other teeth that endure much chewing force.
Best Fillings for Teeth
Several factors will determine the type of filling material for your teeth, including the position and size of the cavity, your budget, and your personal preferences. For instance, gold or amalgam fillings are the best choices for a large cavity in a molar, where serious chewing forces are at work, since these materials are good in strength and durability. If the cavity is small and in a front tooth, however, it makes more aesthetic sense to go for composite or ceramic materials.
Dental Filling Options
1. Direct Fillings
Direct fillings are placed directly in the cavity on one visit to the dentist. They are applied for small cavities and may be made of amalgam, composite, or ceramic.
2. Indirect Fillings
Indirect fillings, also referred to as inlays or onlays, are custom-made in a dental laboratory and then bonded onto the affected tooth. They are used for bigger cavities and can be made from materials such as gold or ceramic.
3. Temporary Fillings
A temporary filling is placed over a tooth in order to cover it and prepare it for the permanent filling to be applied later. Temporary fillings are commonly applied when the appointment time does not allow a permanent filling to be completed within that visit, or when the permanent filling must be custom made at a dental laboratory.
Conclusion
There are various types of dental fillings. Each one has different properties and benefits. Therefore, the type of filling suitable for your teeth depends on many factors such as the location and size of the cavity, your budget, and personal preferences. Finding a good dentist in Wetaskiwin, such as Spring Dental, to cater to your needs will provide quality care. Contact Spring Dental today to schedule an appointment to receive professional care for your dental health needs!