A Look at Dental Filling Material Options
Hearing from the dentist that you have tooth cavities can be quite painful. However, the modern dental technology has given us several methods to fix dental cavities. Previously, you did not have a lot of choice in dental filling materials. Moreover, those materials were not as sturdy as the ones available today. However, with the development of technology, there are more effective dental health procedures to deal with different oral health problems.
Why use dental fillings?
Tooth decay is a common occurring among many individuals. The pain can be difficult to bear at times, which is why dental filling is required. This usually involves the dentist to restore the damaged or decayed tooth back to its original condition. A dental filling is one of the basic dental procedures and has been around for years. It can be a perfect solution to a problem that can worsen with time. It can improve the teeth structure and help you smile with confidence.
Types of dental filling material
Here are filling materials that patients can consider:
Inlays/gold filling
Gold has been a valuable dental filling material in dentistry for quite a long time. Gold filling involves the use of alloys made up of gold, copper and other common metals. The filling is durable and can work as a permanent solution for strengthening the structure of the teeth. However, it is not identical to the natural teeth as compared to other types of fillings.
Amalgam
The material is one of the most preferred filling choices for many dentists. Amalgam consists of different metals, including tin, silver, mercury and zinc. An amalgam filling is a much cheaper option. When it comes to strength and durability, it is quite a reliable filling. A disadvantage of using amalgam is that it can start losing its original appearance over time. This is the reason why numerous patients do not prefer using amalgam as their filling option.
Porcelain
A porcelain filing is quite similar to a gold filling. A major difference between a gold filling and porcelain filling is natural appearance. Porcelain gives the teeth a natural look but can be fragile. Porcelain filling can be expensive and might require multiple visits to the dentist.
Resin/glass ionomer
This type of dental filling material is common in baby teeth or primary teeth. This is because it has a weak structure and only suits well in specific areas. These include places where there is minimal pressure at the time of chewing.
Composite
This dental filling material usually consists of fine glass powder and acrylic resin. An advantage of this type of filling is that it gives the same look that the natural teeth possess. A downside is that it is less durable and only suits moderate tooth decaying conditions.
How can you really use this?
Before choosing a filling option, you should consult a dentist to see which one suits you the best. There are many factors that need your attention. After getting the appropriate filling, take care of your teeth to avoid any further oral health problems.
Call (972) 638-5848 today to reach Sam Patel DDS, PA.
Related Posts
A relatively common problem among people that have fillings and crowns, is that their filling falls out. Often times people do not know "what to do when my filling falls out?" In this situation, we suggest calling our office. In the meantime, here is what you should know.Sometimes fillings and crowns can loosen and fall…
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums does more than ensure a strong and beautiful smile. Proper routine dental care also helps lower the risks of developing many serious diseases, including certain cancers, heart problems, and diabetes. However, patients who struggle with dental anxiety may fail to stick with a regular cleaning and checkup schedule. As a…
Many dental patients have come to expect X-rays as a part of routine dental care. Once or twice a year, a patient may be asked to undergo this simple procedure that provides pictures of the teeth above and below the gum line. Healthy patients rarely have to think beyond holding still for a moment so that…
The increased awareness regarding tooth enamel in the past few decades is all thanks to dentists. People now understand the significance of tooth enamel and its role in maintaining oral health.Tooth enamel forms a protective shell around teeth and gum to help it sustain a number of risks, infections and damages. It is a substance…