Posted on 5/23/2022 by Parkway Dentistry at Langtree
For small-to-medium cavities that require dental attention, your dentist may recommend the placement of a dental filling. Using this virtually painless technique, you can preserve your natural tooth structure while removing the decay. It is one of the most painless dental procedures to acquire or replace fillings. Furthermore, there is considerable confusion on the internet about the types of fillings to be considered.
What is A Dental Filling?
Fillings are dental procedures used to restore parts of teeth that have been damaged by decay. Fillings for teeth can be made of several materials. These materials include amalgam (silver colored), composite (white, or shaded to match the color of your remaining teeth), and gold. Another option is porcelain.
Types of Dental Fillings
Silver/amalgam fillings are most seen in adult mouths. Initially silver in appearance, amalgam fillings turn dull gray or black over time. This happens because silver corrodes. Nevertheless, amalgam's low cost and ability to be placed in a wet field make it a popular choice. Compound fillings usually include glass and acrylic resin. Due to them being easily matched to your natural teeth color, they are popular for front teeth that are obviously visible.
This type of filling may not be suitable for you. Composites are less durable than some other more common options, so they don't last as long. Although porcelain fillings are not the most expensive, they typically require more than one visit. More and more dentists are using newer techniques that shape the filling while the patient waits, completing everything in one visit. Composite materials are bonded to the teeth, which can fail faster than porcelain. The last filling material is gold inlay/onlay. Durability and long-lasting quality make it a good choice for dental fillings. Many people prefer natural-looking fillings, but this is a very good, cost-effective solution. Even though the filling is visible, the gum tissue and opposing teeth tolerate it very well. It also wears down at a rate that won't upset your bite over time.