In order to heal cavities and stop more deterioration, dental fillings are a crucial component of restorative dentistry. Making the best decision for your lifestyle and dental health requires knowing the distinctions between the various filling types, which are available in a variety of forms. The most popular types of dental fillings, their uses, and how to choose the best one for you will all be covered in this blog.
What Makes Dental Fillings Vital?
One of the most prevalent dental conditions, cavities impact a significant portion of both adults and children. Nearly 91% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have experienced cavities at some point in their lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cavities can cause dental decay, pain, infection, and even loss of teeth if they are not corrected.
Dental fillings enable you to confidently chew, speak, and smile by restoring the structure and function of a damaged tooth. Whether you value cost, durability, or appearance, selecting the appropriate filler guarantees that the procedure will meet your objectives.
5 Types of Dental Fillings
Fillings Made of Composite
Composite fillings, sometimes referred to as tooth-coloured fillings, are composed of a mixture of fine glass and plastic. They are a popular choice for exposed regions like the front teeth since they can blend in with the natural colour of your teeth. Because of its versatility, composite fillings can be utilized to fix minor to medium-sized cavities.
Amalgam Fillings
Silver, tin, copper, and mercury are among the metals used to make amalgam fillings, sometimes known as silver fillings. They are among the most traditional and long-lasting choices. These fillings work especially well on rear teeth, where durability and strength are more crucial than aesthetics.
Gold Fillings
These fillings are perfect for anyone looking for dependability because they are strong, resilient, and last upto 10 to 15 years. Despite being pricey, they have a shiny look and can last for decades.
Fillings Made of Ceramic
Ceramic fillings, which are made of porcelain, are long-lasting and have a natural, stain-resistant appearance. They offer a high-end cosmetic finish and work well for larger spaces.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
These fillings release fluoride to stop decay, making them ideal for kids and cavities close to the gum line. They are a sensible option for temporary or particular requirements.
Tips To Select Only The Best Filling For You
A number of factors influence the choice of dental filling:
- For a natural appearance, use ceramic or composite fillings in exposed places, such as the front teeth. Choose gold or long-lasting amalgam fillings for molars.
- While glass ionomer is effective for temporary or pediatric applications, gold and amalgam provide long-lasting solutions.
- While gold and ceramic are high-end choices, composite and amalgam are more affordable.
- While amalgam and gold emphasize strength, composite and ceramic offer a polish that is almost undetectable.
Overall, selecting the appropriate dental filling improves your comfort and confidence in addition to restoring the functionality of your teeth. Never be afraid to ask a dentist about the benefits of each choice and how well they suit your requirements. A beautiful, healthy smile is worth the money, after all! Make an appointment with our dentist right now if you need a dental filling or have concerns about your options.