Types of tooth fillings

Despite people's best efforts, tooth decay still happens, and tooth decay can lead to cavities. Thanks to constant advances in dental technology, dental fillings are more comfortable, durable, and aesthetically appealing than ever before. Fillings can either be direct or indirect, and they can be made of all sorts of different materials. A direct filling involves a dentist sculpting a soft material directly onto the tooth's surface, filling the cavity. In contrast, an indirect filling is made using a mold of the tooth and then bonded to the tooth once it's crafted. Your dentist will discuss your type of filling with you. You can also learn more about the various materials available, but here's some basic information.

Metal amalgam fillings are what most people probably picture when they picture a dental filling. These types of fillings have been in use for more than 150 years. They are made of a mixture of metals and usually include tin, silver, copper, zinc, and elemental mercury. Amalgam fillings are the least expensive type of filling, and they are incredibly durable and can be expected to last, protecting your tooth for a long time. Unfortunately, however, amalgam fillings are dark silver in color, and they tend to darken over time, making them easily visible when you open your mouth. Additionally, despite FDA assertions that the amount of mercury in fillings is perfectly safe for older children, teenagers, and adults, some people prefer not to have mercury in their mouths.

Composite fillings are made from a combination of acrylic resin and powdered glass, allowing them to be shaded to match a person's teeth' natural color. Because they are therefore less visible and obtrusive, composite fillings have increased in popularity in recent years. While composite fillings may be preferable for aesthetic reasons, they are not without their drawbacks. Composite fillings aren't as durable as metal amalgam fillings, so they don't last as long. They are also preferable for teeth that don't bear an incredible amount of force while chewing and small fillings only.

Gold fillings are the most durable of all types of fillings. They are indirect fillings, meaning that they're sculpted outside of the mouth, based on a mold of the teeth, and then bonded to the tooth. This makes the process of placing gold fillings take longer than other types. Gold fillings are the most durable option available, and gold fillings can be expected to last 20 years or more. However, gold fillings are also among the most expensive type of filling available. They are also visible, as they are gold in color, so they may not be recommended for teeth in the front of the mouth. Like gold, porcelain fillings are also indirect fillings and are also expensive. They may be preferable to gold in some cases, as they can be made to match natural teeth almost exactly. Other than cost, their most significant drawback is that they are considerably more brittle and fragile than gold.

Each type of filling has individual strengths and weaknesses, and you and your dentist can work together to determine which type is best for your needs. Of course, the best scenario is not to need a filling at all. To prevent tooth decay and avoid cavities, be sure to brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothpaste and fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular examinations and professional cleanings.

More on Dental Fillings : Tooth Sensitivity After Fillings