What Kind of Dental Fillings Dentists Use for Teeth Restoration?

Fillings are used to repair broken, cracked, or worn-down teeth in order to restore their looks and functioning. They prevent further deterioration by acting as a barrier against deadly bacteria. Moreover, while replacing the damaged part of the tooth, they preserve the majority of the tooth structure.

Do you or a loved one need high-quality teeth gap filling? Schedule an appointment with the Maple Tree Dental team today. The dental experts will offer you advice about the advantages of each filling and help you decide which one is most appropriate for you.

Different Dental Fillings Used by Dental Experts

There are numerous materials that dental experts use in dental fillings. Each one comes with its own unique benefits and disadvantages.

1. Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are silver-colored fillings mainly famous amongst kids. They are made by blending metals such as silver, alloy, and mercury. Most dentists prefer them because they are durable and affordable. Furthermore, patients can easily and comfortably chew on the majority of food without concern about the breakage.

These fillings usually work on the back teeth. Amalgam fillings can withstand a lot of wear and tear and can last up to 10 to 12 years. They are also quite affordable and are resistant to future cavities.

2. Composite Filling

Composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings made using glass quartz powder. Silica and other ceramic particles were added to the resin base. Dentist in Easton, PA will pick a shade to match the teeth of the patient.

They are widely used due to their aesthetic appeal and versatility. As the composite fillings bond to the tooth, so they offer extra support. However, these fillings do not last for a long time.

You may also need to replace your fillings after every five years. Another drawback is that the composite filling procedure is more complicated in comparison to an amalgam filling.

3. Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are used only for non-biting surfaces, decay located around the gumlines, and baby teeth. Glass ionomer is typically a flexible paste used to create a tight seal between the internal tooth and the nearby environment.

Moreover, minimal preparation is required as the filling bonds to the tooth directly. The biggest benefit is that they release fluoride that prevents further decay.

4. Silver Amalgam Fillings

Silver amalgam is the dental fillings made using a mixture of zinc, plastic, mercury, copper, and silver. They can stay up to 15 years and are also found to be a long-lasting solution for dental decay. These filings are also less costly and usually get completed in one visit.

The big downside is that the amalgam may expand or shrink. This can cause cracks in the tooth and require regular dental exams to prevent it.

5. Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings are the most preferred solution for cavities. They look more attractive and long-lasting. They can last up to two decades with proper care and maintenance. They also imitate the shade of your natural teeth. This contributes to a natural-looking smile overall.

However, they are a little bit more costly and brittle. The biggest bonus point is that they can retain their shade. Thanks to their great resistance to stains and abrasion.

6. Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are quite rare due to their high price. These filings are very strong and corrosion-resistant. They are made in a lab and usually stay for 15 years or longer. Few patients find this kind of filling more beautiful than other tooth fillings.

7. Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings guard teeth from decay by filling them with porcelain. These eye-catchy white fillings are durable and offer teeth natural color. Since they are virtually unnoticeable, they mix well with other teeth and offer patients a sparkling smile.

Moreover, porcelain is not prone to shrinking or expansion under extreme temperatures. Porcelain fillings always maintain their size and shape to preserve the integrity of the real tooth.

Fillings are a great solution for tiny fractures and minor cavities in the tooth. They also last for several years depending on the care and how it’s made. No matter what dental filling you and your dentist choose for your mouth, proactively addressing decay will go a long way in preserving teeth and gums integrity. If you need dental fillings in Easton, PA, contact Maple Tree Dental today.