Dental fillings play an essential role in restoring function and aesthetics of teeth. If left untreated, a tooth cavity can result in further damage or even loss of teeth. Dentures are an effective way to avoid this and maintain a beautiful smile. But how can you choose from the many different fillings that are available? This post will review the many advantages and methods for determining the best dental filling for you.
- Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings offer a natural-looking appearance and are versatile. These fillings, made of a combination of fine glass and resin acrylics that can be shaped easily to match the contours of the tooth, are very popular. The filling blends seamlessly into your natural teeth. It is, therefore, the preferred choice for fillings on visible teeth like front teeth.
Benefits:
- Aesthetic Value: Composite fillings match the color of your teeth, so they are an excellent option for visible areas while you are talking or smiling.
- Bonding Power: This filling bonds directly to the teeth structure, providing additional support and strength.
- Versatility: Can be used as a filling material for chipped or broken teeth.
Composite fillings provide an aesthetic, natural solution to tooth cavities without compromising on strength or durability.
- Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and remain an effective and durable option for patients. Combining silver, tin, copper, and mercury, amalgam fillings provide a strong cavity filling.
Benefits:
- Durability: With proper care, amalgam fillings often last 10 to 15 years.
- Strongness: Amalgam is a strong filling material, and it’s an excellent option for back teeth that receive a high amount of chewing force.
- Cost Savings: Amalgam fillings cost less than other fillings.
Amalgam is an excellent choice for patients needing durable tooth fillings. While its color is more noticeable than tooth-colored alternatives, its strength and cost-effectiveness make it one of the best options.
- Resin Ionomer Fillings
Resin Ionomer Fillings are a blend of glass and acrylic acids. They may be used to fill areas of the tooth that are less noticeable, like the root. They are also often used as fillings in pediatric dentistry.
Benefits:
- Fluoride Releasing: The resin ionomer material releases fluoride. This can help prevent future tooth decay and strengthen enamel around the filling.
- Bonding To Tooth Structure: This filling bonds well to the tooth structure and provides good retention.
- Excellent for Temporary Filings: A resin ionomer material commonly fills temporary cavities until a better permanent solution can be found.
While they may not be as long-lasting or attractive as other options in some cases, resin ionomers’ fluoride-release properties and ability to bond with teeth make them an option.
- Glass Ionomer Plugs
As with resin ionomers, they are made using a combination of glass and acrylic. They are mostly used for fillings on areas that don’t receive much pressure or are not chewed. These fillings contain fluoride, which is beneficial in preventing further cavities.
Benefits:
- Fluoride Releasing: Like resin ionomers (glass ionomers), glass ionomers releasing fluoride can help protect against future decay.
- Fillings for Children and Temporary Needs: Glass ionomer temporary fillings and pediatric dentistry are popular because of their fluoride-protecting properties and decent bonding.
- Biological compatibility: Glass ionomer is gentle for the gums, teeth, and tissue.
Glass ionomer materials are less durable and aesthetic than other options. However, they offer fluoride protection, which is ideal when you need to provide a temporary or short-term solution, for example, for children.
Which Fillings Are Right for You
Choosing the correct dental filling is dependent on many factors. These include the location of a cavity, the aesthetics you prefer, and your budget. Here are some considerations to make:
- For Cosmetic Concerns: Choose composite resins or ceramic fillings to blend into your natural teeth. These tooth-colored materials are ideal fillings for areas that are visible.
- For Durability and Strength: A ceramic or metal amalgam filling can be extremely durable and long-lasting, especially useful for back teeth.
Conclusion
Dental fillings help maintain your oral health. They are available in many different options, and there is one that will work for you. Whatever your preference, from a more natural-looking material to a durable filling for the back of teeth to one that protects against fluoride, you can find a suitable material. In collaboration with your dentist, choose the option that will restore your smile while ensuring your long-term oral health.
