There are different types of dental fillings that can save your tooth from extraction. A cavity on your tooth is not a good sign, so get the most suitable filling!
The most important part of the restoration procedure is fixing tooth decay.
The most basic step is for the dentist to clean the decayed area, which results in a hole in the tooth.
That hole will be filled with dental filling to level the surface and give it a natural touch.
Filling cavities or holes in teeth is a must; otherwise, different infections can occur, or you will face problems with eating.
We have also discussed different types of dental fillings. Keep reading to find out which is suitable for you.
Silver amalgam fillings
This is one of the popular fillings that contain maximum silver, but it is combined with other minerals, including tin, zinc, copper, and mercury. It’s widely used because it is strong, long-lasting, and budget-friendly.
Not only this, but even dentists find it a go-to option as it’s malleable. It can withstand around 12 years of use.
However, it doesn’t look good, so it’s not a go-to option for people with visible teeth.
With this material, you can react to temperature changes by contracting and expanding, which can create a crack in your teeth.
This fluctuation will create a gap between the filling and the tooth, which will result in cavities. Avoid the myth that using silver in the filling is safe for health.
Composite fillings
This composite filling is created from plastic and resin. It can be placed in the tooth as it’s soft and later hardened with a bright curing light. It’s the most used option as it can be altered to get you the same colored teeth as your existing ones. It can not be as conspicuous as the silver amalgam filling.
They are not long-lasting as compared to other types of dental fillings. They can hardly work for 5-10 years and later need replacement.
Ceramic fillings
This filling is made of porcelain, which makes it durable and appealing. However, it’s more expensive than other fillings. However, porcelain fillings are the exact same color as your teeth, resist stains, and have better abrasion resistance than composite resin.
The disadvantage of ceramic fillings is that they are harder and best for large cavities. The dentist can make space for extra material.
Glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer filling consists of glass and acrylic. They are widely used for kids, especially the ones whose teeth are forming at the moment.
They produce fluoride in the tooth to save your teeth from decay.
With time, they get weak, so they can only work for a few years.
They look natural as compared to composite resin.
Gold Tooth Fillings
Gold tooth fillings are made of gold, as you can get an idea from the name. That’s why they make the most durable fillings around.
Since we all know gold is extremely costly, gold fillings are also extremely costly compared to other types of dental fillings. They are visible, too, just like amalgam fillings. For people who like to see a gold aesthetic on their teeth, this will be the most appropriate option.
Why Do You Need a Filling?
It’s not good to avoid cavities in your teeth, as when the cavity is damaged, it will impact your oral health and cause dangerous side effects. Here are few
Extreme pain and discomfort because of a decaying tooth
Tooth abscess
Trouble in eating
Removal of tooth
Gum disease
It’s better to treat the cavity as soon as possible. A simple dental filling can also save your tooth and oral health.
When Will I have to Replace my Filling?
A filling can be used for 7-20 years; however, it depends on the area and size of the filling. Your oral hygiene will also be a factor.
Fillings are adjusted with much stress and effort. When you chew, it creates pressure on your filling, which will end after some time. Once it starts moving, a hole will be created for the storage of the food, which will increase the decay.
This makes your visits to the dentist regular. You have to visit twice a year to make sure that your teeth are okay or your fillings are up to date. This can save you from serious issues. Patients who avoid dentist visits will then face root canals or tooth removal.
Conclusion
When your tooth has a small hole or cavity, instead of avoiding you should immediately head to the dentist.
You need proper filling for that space or it can give rise to infection and tooth removal.
There are different types of dental fillings. Silver amalgam is the best in terms of price, while ceramic fillings are best for a similar appearance.
With this article, you will be aware of different types of dental fillings. Discuss with our dentist and go for the filling that is appropriate for you.
FAQs
Can I eat after a dental filling?
According to the dentist, people who have had tooth fillings must wait at least two hours before eating and drinking anything. Still, it’s advisable not to eat very hard or sticky foods.
For example, eating or chewing pizza requires a lot of effort from the teeth, especially when it contains meat.
What happens when the tooth filling falls?
When a tooth’s filling falls out, the immediate action you should take is to get it replaced. If you do not get a filling again, the teeth can be damaged.
There will be gaps, and bacteria can get stuck there, which will result in tooth decay.
With a missing filling, the dentin will be exposed which is the second layer of the tooth under the hard outer enamel.
