At Central Oakville Dental Care, we believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to maintaining your oral health. One of the most common dental treatments is dental fillings, which are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by cavities, cracks, or decay. But with so many different types of fillings available, it’s natural to wonder which one is best for your needs. Here, we’ll take a deeper dive into the different types of dental fillings, their benefits, and what you should consider when choosing the right filling for your teeth.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a material that a dentist uses to fill a cavity or a decayed part of a tooth after it has been cleaned and prepared. Fillings help restore the function and structure of a tooth, preventing further damage and infection. The type of filling used will depend on the extent of the decay, the location of the cavity, your dental health, and your aesthetic preferences. While some fillings are more durable, others are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
The Most Common Types of Dental Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at the most commonly used materials:
- Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
Amalgam fillings, often referred to as “silver fillings,” are a durable and cost-effective option that has been used for over 150 years. Made from a combination of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper, these fillings are known for their strength and longevity.
Pros:
- Durable: Amalgam is one of the strongest materials available, making it an excellent choice for fillings in the back teeth, where pressure from chewing is greatest.
- Long-Lasting: Amalgam fillings can last for 10-15 years or longer, making them one of the most durable filling materials.
- Affordable: These fillings are generally less expensive than some other materials, making them an economical option for many patients.
Cons:
- Aesthetic Concerns: Since amalgam fillings are silver in color, they are not aesthetically pleasing and are visible when you talk or smile, especially in the back of the mouth.
- Mercury Content: Amalgam contains a small amount of mercury, which has raised concerns, although many dental organizations have confirmed that amalgam fillings are safe for the majority of patients.
- Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)
Composite fillings are a popular choice for patients looking for a more natural-looking filling. Made from a mixture of resins, glass, and other materials, these fillings can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless finish.
Pros:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Composite fillings are tooth-colored, making them ideal for fillings in visible areas like the front teeth or areas where appearance is important.
- Bonding to the Tooth: Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, which can help restore its strength and structure.
- Versatile: These fillings are suitable for both small and medium-sized cavities and can be used in both front and back teeth.
Cons:
- Less Durable: While composite fillings are strong, they are not as durable as amalgam fillings, especially in areas where there is significant chewing pressure. They typically last 5-10 years.
- Higher Cost: Composite fillings are generally more expensive than amalgam fillings due to the materials and the time required to place them.
- Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)
Ceramic fillings are made from high-quality porcelain, which offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental restoration. These fillings are often used for larger cavities, particularly in the back teeth.
Pros:
- Natural Look: Ceramic fillings are highly aesthetic, as they can be customized to match the natural color of your teeth. They blend seamlessly and are ideal for visible teeth.
- Durability: Ceramic fillings are very strong and resistant to wear and staining, making them a great long-term option.
- Biocompatibility: Porcelain is a biocompatible material, meaning it’s less likely to cause adverse reactions in the mouth.
Cons:
- Cost: Ceramic fillings are one of the more expensive options, as they require more advanced technology and lab work to create.
- Brittleness: While ceramic is durable, it can be more brittle than other materials, which could potentially lead to fractures under extreme pressure.
- Gold Fillings
Gold fillings have been used for centuries and are still a preferred option for some patients due to their durability and longevity. Gold fillings are made from a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals, and they are custom-made to fit your tooth.
Pros:
- Extremely Durable: Gold is one of the most durable materials for fillings, lasting up to 20 years or more with proper care.
- Biocompatible: Gold is a biocompatible material, meaning it is less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions in the mouth.
- Resistant to Corrosion: Gold does not tarnish or corrode, making it a long-lasting solution for dental restorations.
Cons:
- Aesthetic Considerations: Gold fillings are highly visible and are not an ideal choice for patients who are concerned about the appearance of their teeth, particularly in the front of the mouth.
- High Cost: Gold fillings are one of the most expensive options due to the materials and custom work required.
- Time-Consuming: Since gold fillings are made in a dental lab, the process requires multiple appointments.
- Resilon Fillings
Resilon is a newer, biocompatible material often used for root canal fillings but can also be used for certain cavity restorations. It is a thermoplastic material that provides a tight seal for the treated area.
Pros:
- Biocompatibility: Resilon is considered a more biocompatible alternative to traditional materials, with a low risk of allergic reactions.
- Seals Well: Resilon provides a good seal, which can help prevent future infections or complications from bacteria.
Cons:
- Less Available: Resilon is not as widely used as other materials, so not all dental offices offer it, and it may not be appropriate for every cavity.
Which Dental Filling Is Right for You?
Choosing the right type of dental filling depends on several factors, including the location and size of the cavity, your aesthetic preferences, your budget, and how long you want the filling to last. At Central Oakville Dental Care, our team will work with you to assess your needs and recommend the best option for your situation. We will consider the pros and cons of each filling material and help you make an informed decision.
If you need a filling, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today. We’re here to ensure that you receive the best care possible, from routine check-ups to more advanced dental treatments.
