COMMON TYPES OF DENTAL FILLINGS

Dental issues like cavities are common in people of all ages. To treat these cavities, a dentist removes the affected portion of the tooth and fills the gap with an external filling known as a dental filling. There are various types of fillings, and a detailed list of the types of dental fillings is shared below.

WHY ARE DENTAL FILLINGS NEEDED?

When the plaque formed in the mouth release harmful acids, these acids attack the enamel and erode it, forming a dental cavity. The dental cavity keeps extending to the inner tissues of the tooth, and decay the tooth root. To treat the cavities and tooth decay, an orthodontist performs a root canal and removes the decayed portion of the tooth. The gap created is closed using a dental filling. 

Dental fillings are also used to treat chipped teeth and the enamel that wear out due to teeth grinding or other unhealthy dental practices that harm the teeth. 

TYPES OF DENTAL FILLINGS

There are various types of dental fillings used by the dentist to treat dental defects.

1.SILVER AMALGAM FILLINGS

Silver amalgam fillings are the most common ones used by dentists because of their higher durability and affordable costs. Silver amalgams are partially composed of silver with a combination of tin, zinc, copper and mercury. These fillings can last up to 10-12 years and withstand the forces exerted while chewing foods. However, a disadvantage of these amalgam fillings is that they are visible and degrade the aesthetics of your smile. Also, silver amalgams require enough space and hence much of the tooth structure has to be removed.

2.RESIN COMPOSITE FILLINGS

The disadvantage of amalgam fillings gets sorted by composite fillings that match the tooth color and enhance the aesthetics of your smile. Also, these fillings well bond with the teeth and require only a little removal of the tooth structure. Composite fillings are ideal for the front teeth and are also used to correct the broken or chipped teeth. Resin fillings have their own disadvantages, like they are less durable and last only for 5-6 years, and are highly expensive than amalgam fillings.

3.GOLD FILLINGS

Gold fillings are the rarest ones being too expensive and requiring more than one dental visit. But these are highly durable ones made of an alloy of gold, copper and other metals. Gold fillings do not corrode and last for more than 15 years. The presence of a gold dental filling might give a rich look to your teeth but would not match the natural-looking color of the teeth as the composite fillings match. 

4.CERAMIC FILLINGS

Ceramic fillings, also known as inlays or outlays, are made of porcelain, providing an enhanced aesthetic appearance. These fillings not only match the color of your natural tooth but are highly durable, too, lasting for more than 15 years. However, these fillings are brittle enough to break away, and hence a larger filling must be done, which requires larger tooth structure removal. These are expensive but highly resistant to staining when compared to their composite counterparts. 

5.GLASS IONOMER FILLINGS

These fillings are made of a combination of glass and acrylic materials. These are not as durable as composite fillings and last for a shorter span of around five years. These fillings are best suited for children and baby teeth. These glass ionomer fillings release fluoride, an essential mineral for strengthening the teeth and preventing tooth decay.

Fillings protect your teeth from further wear and tear and prevent tooth decay. Consult with your dentist about which dental filling best suits your dental requirement. Most of these dental fillings are also covered under dental insurance and hence reduce the costs. It is also highly essential to follow the best dental practices to keep your teeth healthy. Visit Elite Dental Care, the best dental clinic in Tracy, California to treat your dental defects with dental fillings.    