Understanding the Different Types of Fillings: Which One Is Right for You?
Dental fillings are a typical restorative operation for fixing cavities and repairing broken teeth. Tooth technology has evolved throughout time to offer several tooth fillings to meet personal needs and preferences. The several kinds of dental fillings now in use will be discussed in this thorough guide, together with their special qualities, benefits, and factors to be considered. Knowing these choices will enable you, with the advice of an NE Philadelphia dentist, to make a wise decision about your oral health, whether you have a cavity or are thinking about replacing an existing filling.
What is Dental Filling?
A dental filling or restoration is a procedure used to restore the functional integrity of a tooth by using a mix of several materials. Dental fillings seal the rotting portion of a tooth. They also help to restore teeth that have been depleted or weakened, as well as damaged or broken teeth. By closing the tooth’s region where bacteria can penetrate, the filling stops further deterioration.
Different Types of Dental Fillings
- Amalgam Fillings
For more than a century, amalgam fillings—also called silver fillings—have been used. Designed from a combination of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper, these fillings are strong and perfect for back teeth under a lot of chewing strain. Although amalgam fillings are affordable and long-lasting, their silver hue increases their visibility.
Pros: Durable, affordable, long-lasting
Cons: Noticeable silver color; some people may have metal sensitivities
- Composite Fillings
Made from a combination of plastic and small glass particles, composite fillings let your teeth’s natural color be matched. For obvious places like front teeth, this makes them a popular choice. Composite fillings may not be as durable as metal fillings for rear teeth, even if they bind effectively to the native tooth structure.
Pros: Tooth-colored, blends seamlessly, bonds well to teeth
Cons: When compared with amalgam they are less durable, and may need more frequent replacement
- Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are custom-made in laboratories. They are also commonly referred to as porcelain fillings. They are a preferred choice for a suitable cavity or damaged section of the tooth. Since they may match the natural tooth color, they have a great appearance. Strong, stain-resistant, and a great long-term fix for teeth with moderate to severe damage, ceramic fillings. While onlays are used when the damage spans the chewing surface, inlays are used when the cavity falls within the tooth’s cusps.
Pros: Tooth-colored, durable, stain-resistant
Cons: Requires more preparation and are costlier in comparison to the rest
- Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings consist of combined acrylic and glass components. They emit fluoride, which can stop tooth deterioration. Non-loading bearing locations, baby teeth, and a few other types of materials are most often used for these fillings. Although they are not as strong as amalgam or composite fillings, they have distinct advantages, particularly in dental conditions.
Pros: Releases fluoride, good for areas with less stress
Cons: Less durable, not ideal for large fillings or high-stress areas
- Gold Fillings
Though made in a dental laboratory based on impressions obtained by your dentist, cast gold fillings—also known as gold inlays or onlays—are comparable to gold fillings. They are quite robust and fit exactly. Ideal for molars and premolars, cast gold fillings can resist strong biting forces. They are more costly in comparison to other choices available.
Pros: Durable, well-tolerated, long-lasting
Cons: Noticeable color, higher cost
Conclusion
Maintaining your oral health and guaranteeing the lifetime of your dental restoration depend on your choice of dental filling type. With so many choices available— amalgam, composite, ceramic, and gold fillings—everyone’s particular dental needs and tastes can be satisfied. See your dentist to choose the best filling material for your particular circumstances; then, take great satisfaction in keeping your natural smile for many years to come.
