Dental Filling Material: How to Choose the Right One

Aug 10, 2023

An Overview of Dental Fillings

These are materials that dentists employ to restore damaged teeth. Dental fillings at Excel Dental Care are quite popular in restorative dentistry, having that they are renowned for their ability to repair teeth after decay and cavities. They feature materials that can replace a portion of the tooth enamel when it incurs damage.

How Do Dental Filling Materials Differ?

The types of dental fillings are distinguished by the materials they feature. There are various materials so every patient can find a dental filling that meets their needs without undermining their preferences. The different types of dental filling materials and their key characteristics are:

  • Amalgam Fillings – are popular as silver fillings. They are made from a mixture of metals, including tin, copper, and mercury, with silver as the primary component. These dental fillings are known for their strength and durability. Amalgam fillings are relatively inexpensive, especially compared to other options. However, due to their conspicuous appearance, dentists often use them to restore molars and premolars where aesthetics are less of a concern.
  • Composite Resin Fillings – are sometimes called tooth-colored or white fillings. These dental fillings feature a mixture of plastic and glass particles to create aesthetically pleasing resins that can match the natural tooth’s color. Therefore, they have a natural-looking appearance that makes them suitable for front teeth and other visible areas. s Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, allowing more conservative preparations. However, they are generally less durable than amalgam fillings or other counterparts so they may require replacement over time.
  • Ceramic Fillings – are also known as porcelain fillings, featuring a high-quality dental ceramic material. Porcelain materials are typically known for their excellent aesthetics, as they closely resemble the color and translucency of natural teeth. Father, these dental fillings are highly biocompatible, resistant to staining, and long-lasting with proper care. However, due to the high-quality components of the material, porcelain fillings are typically more expensive than amalgam or composite fillings.
  • Glass Ionomer Fillings – feature a mixture of glass particles and an organic acid to develop acrylic. Glass ionomers are often used as dental sealants in preventive dentistry. They create a protective barrier over teeth to resist bacteria and acids that cause cavities. They can also be useful for small restorations, root surface cavities, or areas with less chewing force. Further, glass ionomer fillings have the advantage of releasing fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay. However, they are less durable than other filling materials and often wear down or fracture over time.
  • Gold Fillings – feature an alloy of gold and other metals. Gold fillings are highly durable, lasting for decades. Dentists often use them in areas of the mouth that undergo significant biting forces, like molars and premolars. However, they are more expensive than other options and less commonly used due to their distinct appearance.

Choosing the Right Dental Filling Material for Your Smile

Various factors should influence your decision for dental fillings near you. Usually, make the decision after carefully liaising with your dentist in Howard County so that you can account for their recommendation. The reason is that dentists will consider the location of the tooth, the number of teeth restorations, your unique oral health needs, and the suitability of the material, among other factors. Further, consider the following pointers:

  • Aesthetics – get a filling material that will not compromise your smile’s appearance. The stakes are quite high when you are restoring the front teeth. Find a dental filling in Ellicott City that can match your natural teeth color.
  • Longevity and durability – some materials last longer than others. For example, you may need touch-ups every several months to ensure they remain compact when you get composites. However, other materials like porcelain can last for years without requiring retreatment.
  • Sturdiness – it is especially crucial when restoring the back teeth. Allow your Catonsville local dentist to recommend the sturdiest materials for your back teeth that can withstand the force of constant chewing.
  • Budget – frankly, some materials are costlier than others, which may be a heavy burden for you, especially if you do not have insurance. Consider a filling material within your budget, especially when restoring multiple teeth.
  • Preferences – do not undermine your personal preferences. Every patient has an idea of what they want to achieve with their smile. Therefore, there is nothing wrong with picking gold fillings for your front teeth if that is what you prefer instead of an esthetically-pleasing alternative.

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