Like most people, you may not often think about your dental fillings. But if you need a filling, it’s essential to know what type of material your dentist will be using. Several types of dental fillings are available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. This blog will shed light on dental fillings and their types. So stay tuned!
Dental fillings are used to reestablish teeth that have been damaged by decay. A dentist usually places them in one or two visits. Initially, the tooth is cleaned, and the area around it is numbed with anesthesia. The dentist then removes the decayed tooth material and fills the area with the chosen filling material. The filling material is then shaped and polished to match the contours of your tooth.
Types of Dental Fillings:
Gold Filling
They are prepared from an alloy of gold and other metals, such as copper. They are the most durable filling and can last for years with proper care. Gold fillings are also firm and unlikely to break or chip. However, they are also the most expensive type of filling available. As a result, they are not always the best option for budget-conscious patients.
Silver Amalgam Fillings
Silver fillings, or amalgams, have been used to fill cavities for over 150 years. They are made of an amalgam of silver, copper, and tin. Amalgams are durable and long-lasting and are used to fill cavities in both back and front teeth. In addition, silver fillings are less expensive than other types of fillings. Despite these advantages, there are some concerns about the safety of amalgams. Some studies have suggested that mercury in dental fillings may be released into the body and contribute to health problems such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and multiple sclerosis. However, these studies have not been definitive.
Tooth coloured composites
In the past, dental fillings were primarily made of metal. Today, tooth-coloured composites are becoming more popular. Composites are made of plastic resin and fine glass particles. A dentist can match them to the colour of your natural teeth.
Composites have many advantages. They bond to your tooth structure, which helps to support the tooth and prevent further breakage. Metal fillings can expand and contract with changes in temperature, which can cause cracking and further damage to the tooth. They also do not require as much of the natural tooth structure to be removed to place them, which helps keep your teeth healthy and strong. In addition, composites can be used to repair chipped or broken teeth and to close spaces between teeth.
Ceramics Teeth filling
Ceramics are a popular choice for tooth fillings because they look natural and are durable. They are made from porcelain, which is a solid material. Ceramic fillings are also very resistant to staining so they will maintain their natural appearance over time. In addition, ceramics are biocompatible, meaning they will not cause an allergic reaction. One downside of ceramic fillings is that they can be more expensive than other fillings. However, many people feel that the benefits of ceramic fillings outweigh the cost.
Glass ionomer
Glass ionomer teeth fillings are made from a particular type of glass combined with acrylic acid. This combination makes the filling material more robust and durable than other fillings. In addition, glass ionomer fillings also contain fluoride, which helps to prevent cavities. The fluoride is released over time, providing long-lasting protection against tooth decay. Glass ionomer teeth fillings are an effective and safe way to treat cavities. However, they are not as strong as metal fillings and may not last as long. In addition, glass ionomer fillings can sometimes discolour the teeth.
Conclusion
Here at Piazza Dental, we want to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your oral health. If you have questions about the types of fillings or which one might be right for you, don’t hesitate to call us. We would be happy to help!
