You or someone you know may have previously had cavities that were filled by a dentist. It’s quite a common way for dentists to treat cavities and prevent teeth from decaying or deteriorating further. Fillings are essentially used to help restore the tooth and bring it back to its former strength.
If you are faced with having to get dental fillings, you may be wondering what the different materials used are composed of and which material would work best for your specific circumstances. If you would like to learn more about dental fillings and the different types that are being used, read below to help you choose the best option.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are a good choice if you are looking for a durable, sturdy option that won’t need to be replaced for up to 15 years. Keep in mind that the gold used is also combined with other metals. These fillings are known to be high quality and less likely to stain throughout their lifetime.
Although gold fillings are widely regarded as one of the best options, they can often be costly and less convenient than other options. The process of making and fitting them also requires more visits to the dentist, so keep this in mind when making your decision.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are also referred to as silver fillings because they are primarily composed of silver. They also combine other materials such as copper, mercury and tin. They are quite affordable and can also be durable and long-lasting.
While these types of fillings have been widely used by dentists for decades, they are some of the least aesthetically pleasing. This is the reason why many people in recent times have chosen other types of fillings.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic or porcelain fillings look very attractive while also being durable and long-lasting. This is because they match the colour of existing teeth and maintain a natural appearance. While these types of fillings can be rather expensive, they are usually less expensive than gold fillings. They also may require more than one trip to the dentist.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are affordable, convenient and can be applied by your dentist in one visit, saving you time and effort. These types of fillings are also known as white or plastic fillings and they have a more natural appearance that blends with existing teeth. They are made out of a composite plastic material which makes them easy to place just about anywhere in the mouth. Composite fillings are generally better for smaller cavities but they’re less durable than amalgam fillings.
Acrylic Fillings
Also known as glass ionomers, acrylic fillings are usually not recommended to adult patients as they are not as durable as other options and on average, last less than 5 years. These can be used on children when teeth are changing and not yet permanent. They are not likely to be recommended for adults and if they are, it will most likely be for a minor cavity in an area that is not subject to much pressure (or chewing).
Which option is best?
With all these different types of fillings, it may be hard for you to pinpoint which material would be best for you. It’s a good idea to talk with your dentist about these options and to see what they recommend. However, any of these options is better than doing nothing or delaying treatment. Talk to your dentist immediately if you notice pain, discomfort or tooth sensitivity. These are all signs and symptoms of a tooth cavity which is better treated in the early stages, before further treatment and more extreme measures are needed.
When it comes to filling a cavity, as we’ve explained here, there are many options available. Your dentist will discuss the various types of fillings and recommend the best option for you. It’s always a good idea to do your own research when it comes to the different types of fillings and their longevity. Keep in mind that good oral hygiene and preventative care will help to decrease the likelihood of developing cavities in the future.
For more information on porcelain tooth fillings in Mississauga and the GTA, please call Bristol Dental at 866-673-2109 or contact us here.
Good post, it really encapsulates all the different dental fillings that one can get. It’s a great comparison post all in all. I want to share a clinic who give me the best dental healthcare. “Smile to Go“. They have a variety of dental services with my different areas of need. Once again, thanks!