Different Materials Used for Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are used to treat cavities and other missing tooth structures. The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the space with different materials. 

Dental fillings are either single or combinations of different kinds of materials including metals, plastic, glass, or others. They help to restore the function of missing tooth structures caused by decay or external trauma.

There are different varieties of dental fillings used to treat cavities. The materials employed for dental fillings have changed and improved over the years. The following are some of them: 

• Amalgam Fillings

They are silver-colored fillings made by blending mercury, tin, zinc, copper, and silver alloy. They are long-lasting fillings that last for 10 to 15 years. They are economical, strong, durable, and hard-wearing fillings. They can withstand chewing forces and are usually placed in back chewing teeth. 

• Composite Fillings

Composite fillings closely match the color of the existing tooth. They are usually placed at the front of the teeth or visible parts of the teeth. They mechanically bond to the structure of the tooth, providing further support. They are also used to repair worn, chipped, or broken teeth. 

• Cast Gold Fillings

They last for a longer period of at least 10 to 15 years. They do not corrode and can withstand chewing force. However, the cost of gold fillings is 10 times higher than the cost of silver amalgams. Often, more patients find it more pleasing than the silver amalgams. They are made in the laboratory and have great strength. 

• Glass Ionomer Fillings

They are made of acrylic and specific types of glass materials and form a chemical link with the tooth and also release fluoride. The release of fluoride helps to prevent further tooth loss. They are placed on baby teeth and non-biting surfaces as they are fairly weak. The filling bonds directly to the tooth. They are more susceptible to wear and are also prone to fractures. 

• Ceramic Fillings

These filings are mostly made up of porcelain. They last for more than 15 years and are more invulnerable to staining than composite resin material. Ceramic fillings can be hard to wear and can match the color of your tooth. Ceramic fillings are quite expensive.

The dentists at Stone Dental Group can orient their patients on the different types of filling materials and help them choose the most appropriate one. Head over to 2845 N Sheridan Rd #914, Chicago, IL 60657, contact us at (773) 8805080, or visit our website to learn more.