Selecting the Right Type of Dental Filling Material for Your Teeth

Tooth decay remains a problem in children and adults despite the advances in dental care and hygiene. Tooth decay leads to more serious dental issues if not treated quickly and adequately. Some of them include your teeth failing and having an abscessed tooth. This is why it is recommended you visit a dentist near you at least twice a year for dental health checkups.

There are various types of dental fillings near you available in forms of gold, composite and ceramic. Although every type of filling material can be used to fill your cavity, some types of dental fillings are better suited for specific conditions. Our dentist at Garrettsville, OH, will help you determine the perfect material that will work for you. In addition, the dentist will consider your current dental health and your budget.

When selecting the suitable filling material for you, you should factor in the severity of the decay, cavity location on your mouth, and insurance coverage. In this article, we have more information about the different types of fillings. Read on.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are different dental fillings in Garrettsville Dental Group, OH, that will fill your cavity depending on your preference and prevent further damage to your teeth. They include:

Dental Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made of resin and glass. Your dentist will place it on the tooth while it is soft and harden it with a bright light. The filling can be customized to match the color of your teeth. This makes it more popular and common since many people want natural-looking smiles.

However, a composite filling is less durable, making it not always the right pick. Therefore, the useful lifespan of this filling is not as long as other options such as amalgam fillings. A composite filling is best as a small filling and ideally suited for teeth that receive less pressure when you chew.

Amalgam Dental Fillings

Silver amalgam combines silver, mercury, tin, and copper. It is a popular type since it is firm and sturdy, less expensive than other options, and more long-lasting. With proper dental care, these fillings can last up to 12 years.

In addition, this filling is malleable, making dentists find it easy to use. However, patients don’t see it as aesthetically pleasing. Also, amalgam fillings are prone to contracting and expanding, causing your tooth to crack compared to other options of fillings. Although it has mercury surrounding it, it is declared safe for use.

Ceramic Fillings

These fillings are made from porcelain material. They are cosmetically appealing and durable. Ceramic fillings are the most expensive type of fillings compared to the other fillings, but they resist stains and are tooth-colored. They also resist abrasion better than composite fillings.

However, the ceramic filling is more brittle. Therefore, it is only best on large cavities to prevent breakage.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer filling is created from a mix of acrylic and glass. Children also get cavities that need to be filled just like their parents. Glass ionomer is applied in children whose teeth are still forming. They are used on primary teeth or to fill the small areas of decay, as they are delicate and wear and tear.

Glass ionomer releases fluoride into the tooth to protect it from further decay. When glass ionomer fillings are used on permanent teeth, they are typically placed in a spot that does not experience extreme pressure when chewing.

Gold Fillings

When it comes to dental fillings, the options are not limiting. Gold fillings are non-corrosive, durable, and can last up to 15 years with proper dental hygiene. However, the durability comes at a price since gold is among the most expensive fillings. Also, they are an indirect type of fillings, so you’ll require to visit your dentist Hiram more than once to get your fillings fitted correctly.

Benefits of Dental Fillings in Garrettsville, OH

Regardless of the type of dental filling you get, you’ll notice fillings preserve the integrity of your gums and teeth. You’ll also have other benefits that include:

• Tooth fillings prevent infection
• Improve tooth functionality
• Tooth fillings bolster a tooth with a weak structure
• Fillings release fluoride to the tooth, strengthening the enamel
• Modern-day fillings match the aesthetics of your natural teeth