Dental Fillings: Materials, Options, and When They Are Needed

Have you recently found out that you have a cavity? Or maybe you suffered an accident that caused a small crack or chip in your tooth? When these incidents occur, a dental filling is often the preferred treatment. Fillings involve using artificial substances to fill holes in the enamel of broken, decayed, or damaged teeth. This standard procedure is safe, fast, and lasts seven to 10 years. As a patient, you’ll need to decide what type of filling is best for you.

When are Dental Fillings Needed?

Many people need a filling at some point. The most common reason for dental fillings is cavities. If your Clermont dentist finds tooth decay that has created a hole in your tooth, the affected portion will be drilled out and filled with a substance like white composite.

A filling may also be recommended if you have a cracked or chipped tooth. Many factors can contribute to chips and cracks, such as clenching or grinding your teeth, biting something too hard, or being struck in the face or mouth.

What are the Types of Dental Fillings?

While tooth-colored composites are the most appropriate choice for most patients, there are other types of dental fillings to consider. Your dentist in Clermont will review your options, including durability and cost. The five main types of fillings include:

1. Silver Fillings (Amalgams)

Silver fillings, also known as amalgams, were once a widespread choice for restorations as they are solid and inexpensive. Amalgam fillings are constructed from various metals, such as copper, tin, mercury, and silver. However, they are less common today for a couple of reasons. First, they are silver in color, making them less aesthetically pleasing than white composite fillings. In addition, many patients want to steer clear of dental amalgam, which is approximately half mercury by weight.

2. Gold Cast Fillings

As the name implies, gold cast fillings are mainly constructed of gold, and often combined with other metals. There are several key benefits to choosing gold for your restoration. These castings will not fracture or break and typically exhibit only marginal wear over time. Gold is also favored as it is mercury-free, will not discolor teeth, and is less prone to contraction and expansion due to temperature changes. However, gold-cast fillings can be more costly than silver and tooth-colored composites.

3. Tooth-Colored Composites

White composite fillings are the go-to option when performing a restoration. These fillings are performed using a tooth-colored substance that is directly applied to the tooth. They contain a light-sensitive element that is cured with a high-powered light. Your dentist in Clermont, FL, will use the composite directly on your tooth; the final result is very natural. Teeth containing white fillings are also less likely to crack and allow dental technicians to spot decay more easily on X-rays than silver fillings.

4. Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic dental fillings are constructed from a high-quality ceramic that is chemically fused to the tooth. While ceramic isn’t as strong as gold, its strength does increase significantly once the filling material is bonded to the natural tooth. Ceramic fillings are popular due to their aesthetic, which creates a natural look that blends with the rest of the teeth. These fillings are also resistant to stains and are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction, which can occur with metal fillings.

5. Glass Ionomer Fillings

While not as commonly used as white composite fillings, glass ionomer fillings offer several key advantages. This filling material is made from acrylic, fluoro-aluminosilicate (minute glass particles), and a setting agent. As they are cream-colored, they match the teeth better than silver fillings (but not as well as white composites). They are also not as strong as composite and are generally placed in areas of the mouth with less pressure on the teeth.

Schedule Your Next Dental Filling

Hancock Village Dental is an amalgam-free office, offering white composite fillings that look and feel natural. Contact our Clermont family dentistry office today to schedule an appointment.