Do you need to have a tooth filled but aren't sure which type of filling to go for? Learn which type of dental filling is right for you.
Did you know there are about
175 million filling operations
performed in the United States every year?
It's no wonder there are so many people curious as to what exactly is being put in their teeth during a filling.
Do you need to have a tooth filled but aren't sure which type of filling to go for?
Keep reading to learn about different fillings to choose which type of dental filling is right for you.
A dental filling is one of the most common forms of dental work done before having a complete smile makeover. They either repair cavities or fill in root canal sites. Fillings replace decayed portions of teeth to make the tooth stronger.
Cavities
When a tooth is affected by a cavity, it means that bacteria wore away the protective minerals that shield a tooth from damage. This bacteria digs into the enamel of the tooth and burrows down beneath the tooths enamel. Another way to describe it is as a hole that can grow bigger over time.
Root Canals
When a root canal is formed, the dentist has to create an entry point. The entry point is commonly made at the top of the tooth to remove the damaged dental pulp that's inside the affected tooth. Once the root canal procedure is completed, a filling seals up the entry point made in the beginning.
How is a Filling Done?
First, the dentist numbs the area around the tooth. A local anesthetic is most commonly used to numb the area. Once the area is numb, the decayed area is removed with one of the following:
- Drill
- Laser
- Air abrasion instrument
It's up to the dentist to choose the tool they are most comfortable with using while also considering the extent of the tooth decay and where the tooth is located.
After removing the decay, the dentist will test the area to make sure that they removed all the decay. Then the dentist prepares the space by cleaning the cavity of bacteria and any debris. If the decay is near the root, they might put a liner to protect the nerve from getting affected.
The liner your dentist uses will be any of the following:
- Composite resin
- Glass ionomer
- Other material
After the filling is complete, the dentist will polish it.
Let's Chat Materials for Dental Fillings
It's good to keep in mind that each material has its own strengths and weaknesses. There is no one perfect filling for every person. Your dentist will be helpful when deciding which type of filling to go with.
Composite Resin Fillings
This material is a combination of resin and plastic. They are a popular choice because they match the color of the rest of your teeth and don't stand out.
One drawback of composite resin fillings is that they are less durable. Their average lifespan is between three to ten years. Another drawback is that they can take longer to apply because each layer of resin has to harden before the next layer can be put on.
This is not the best choice of material for larger fillings because they have a tendency to chip. The last thing to keep in mind is that they stain easily. If you're a coffee drinker, tea drinker, or tobacco user, you will want to look at one of the other materials.
Silver Amalgam Fillings
This material has been used for more than 150 years. It's one of the most common types of dental filling because they are strong, durable, and the least expensive out of all the filling materials. Silver fillings are a combination of metals including silver, tin, and copper.
Their drawback is they are not as visually appealing because they don't blend in with your tooth color. This is not the material to go with when filling front teeth because of their dark color.
Gold Fillings
This type of filling has been around for more than 1,000 years because the body responds well to it and doesn't reject it. Gum tissue has great tolerance for gold inlays.
A gold filling can last more than twenty years giving peace of mind that your tooth will be covered for a couple of decades. They are also non-corrosive.
One of the drawbacks to gold fillings is they require several visits to finish them. A second drawback is they are an expensive choice.
Ceramic Fillings
This material is durable and the color blends right in. This makes this material the most visually appealing to patients. They are resistant to staining, which also makes them a favorite choice of filling.
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain, which makes them expensive. They cost as much as a gold filling. A dental laboratory makes these fillings to order.
This choice of material is less durable than metal filling, though.
Glass Ionomers
This type of filling is mainly used on children whose teeth are still changing. It's made from glass and acrylic. Glass ionomers last fewer than five years.
Something unique about this type of filling is that they release fluoride.
Which Dental Filling Material Is Best for You?
As mentioned before, your dentist will be the most helpful when choosing the best dental filling for your tooth. They will be able to recommend which material is best suited for you and your lifestyle. They will also take into consideration your budget and your current dental health.
You will want to factor the location of the cavity in your mouth, your dental insurance coverage, and how severe the decay is when looking at your options and making your decision.
Contact us
to book your appointment and have peace of mind that you will have the best service for your filling needs.
