So you have a cavity. You were hoping to avoid another filling, but here you are again.
A dental filling is exactly what the name implies — a substance that fills the internal area of a tooth that your dentist has removed because of decay. Fillings are added to prevent future decay and protect the tooth from further damage.
Dentists today use several types of fillings. Knowing the pros and cons of each kind can help you understand why your dentist is recommending a certain filling for your cavity.
Here’s information on the different kinds of fillings, courtesy of Dr. Brian LaBombard and our team at Airport Dental Care in Austin, Texas.
Composite
Composite resin fillings can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth, so they’re a great choice for any filling that involves visible teeth or addresses cracks or chips in your teeth.
Although composite fillings bond well to teeth, they’re not as durable as other filling options, and they may be more expensive.
Silver amalgam
Silver fillings are strong and durable, lasting 10-15 years, and can easily handle the force of chewing. They’re also relatively inexpensive. Drawbacks include the inability to match the filling to your tooth color, and the amalgam can contain mercury, a known neurotoxin.
Gold
Gold fillings are strong, can handle the force of chewing, and are non-corrosive. They can last more than 15 years, and many patients prefer the color to silver.
For a correct fit, gold fillings may require more than one visit to the dentist’s office. And they’re expensive, costing up to 10 times more than other filling options.
Ceramic
Ceramic fillings are made of porcelain, so they’re durable, and can closely match the color of your other teeth. They’re less susceptible to staining than composite fillings and last a long time, but they’re expensive as well.
Glass ionomers
Glass and acrylic bonded together make up these fillings, which typically last less than five years and are mainly an option for children whose teeth are still changing. These fillings can also release fluoride over the tooth, providing extra protection against tooth decay.
If you suspect you have a cavity or know you need a filling, our team at Airport Dental Care is ready to take care of your needs. We can help you determine the best type of filling for your situation.
Call our office or use the online booking tool today to set up your appointment.