Dental fillings are a common procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, fractures, or wear. They are used to restore the function and appearance of the tooth, and can be made from a variety of materials. In this article, we will discuss the different types of dental fillings and their advantages and disadvantages. The most common type of dental filling is amalgam, which is made from a combination of metals such as silver, tin, copper, and zinc. Amalgam fillings are strong and durable, and they can last up to 15 years with proper care.
However, they are also visible when you smile and can cause discoloration of the tooth over time. Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles. They are tooth-colored, so they blend in with your natural teeth and are less visible than amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are also more resistant to staining and wear than amalgam fillings. However, they may not last as long as amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced more often. Glass ionomer fillings are made from a combination of acrylic and glass particles.
They release fluoride, which helps to protect the tooth from further decay. Glass ionomer fillings are also tooth-colored, so they blend in with your natural teeth. However, they may not be as strong or durable as other types of fillings. Porcelain fillings are made from ceramic material that is matched to the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain fillings are strong and durable, and they can last up to 20 years with proper care.
However, they may be more expensive than other types of fillings. Gold fillings are made from a combination of gold, copper, and other metals. Gold fillings are strong and durable, and they can last up to 25 years with proper care. However, they may be more expensive than other types of fillings. Finally, there are also resin-based composite fillings. These are made from a combination of plastic and glass particles that are matched to the color of your natural teeth.
Resin-based composite fillings are strong and durable, and they can last up to 10 years with proper care. However, they may not be as strong or durable as other types of fillings. When choosing a type of dental filling for your tooth, it is important to consider your budget, the longevity of the filling material, and the appearance of the filling material. Your dentist can help you decide which type of filling is best for you.
