What You Need To Know About Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are the most common type of tooth restoration, used to treat minor to moderate cavities. Though the process of getting a filling is fairly simple, it helps to know what is involved and what your options are. This article explains the dental filling process, the types of material used, and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Overview of dental fillings

When plaque and bacteria stay on a tooth too long, they erode the enamel creating small holes called cavities. The dentist must then remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with a filling material. Dental fillings work best when the cavity is caught early and before it reaches the tooth's pulp. The procedure can usually be completed in one appointment under local anesthetic.

Types of dental fillings

There are a few different types of materials dentists use to fill cavities. Here we will discuss the most common types along with their advantages and disadvantages.

Composite resin

These tooth-colored fillings contain a mixture of plastic resin reinforced with a powdered glass filler. Dentists also use this material to fix minor chips and cracks in teeth and to craft dental veneers. The dentist can match the color of this material to the shade of the patient's tooth, making the filling virtually unnoticeable. In addition, this type of filling requires less alteration to the natural tooth. However, this material is not as durable as other filling materials and will need to be replaced sooner.

Ceramic

Ceramic is another option for those seeking a tooth-colored filling. These dental fillings are more durable than composite resin and less likely to stain over time. Like metal fillings, these may last up to 15 years. However, the tend to run more expensive than other fillings. It is also important to note that these indirect restorations require more than one dental appointment.

Glass ionomer

Glass ionomer is a newer filling material on the market that matches the color of natural tooth enamel. Like composite resin fillings, the dentist can complete them in only one appointment. The chief advantage of this material is that it contains fluoride, which can help prevent future tooth decay. However, it is important to note that this material is the weaker filling material (lasting only around five years) and is unsuitable for teeth that sustain a lot of biting force, such as the molars.

Amalgam

This was once the go-to material for most dental fillings. These fillings are a mixture of metals; however, since they are silver in appearance, they are often referred to as silver fillings. Amalgam is strong, long-lasting, and less expensive than other cavity fillings. However, because they are noticeable in the mouth, people generally only want to use them on the molars where they are less visible. These fillings contain mercury, which is a concern for some people. However, the amount of mercury is minimal, and the American Dental Association reports they do not pose a health risk.

Things to consider when getting a dental filling

Ultimately, it is up to the patient and their dentist which material to use. Cosmetic concerns must be weighed against concerns over durability and cost. Once the material is chosen, the procedure is simple, and patients can usually return to their regular activities immediately. Patients must avoid chewing until the numbness of the local anesthetic has worn off.