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Understanding Dental Restorations: Types of Fillings

Posted on 8/21/2023 by Nancy Shiba DDS

Dentists use dental filling to repair damaged teeth. Dental practitioners make dental fillings from different materials. These include gold, porcelain, silver amalgam, and even composite resin. Dental practitioners make dental fillings from a single material or a mixture of materials. When choosing the type of filling that is best for you, your dentist considers the following; where the decay is located, the severity of the decay, and your insurance coverage.

Types Of Dental Fillings

Silver Amalgam

Silver amalgam is a common dental filling option many people use. They make this type of filling, from a mixture of silver, zinc, copper, and mercury. Many people prefer silver amalgam because it is long-lasting and affordable. This type of filling can last up to 12 years. However, the major problem with the silver amalgam is that it is not aesthetically pleasing. The material responds to temperature change by expanding and contracting, this could cause a crack in the tooth.

Ceramic Filling

Dental practitioners make ceramic fillings from porcelain. Porcelain is aesthetically pleasing because they design it to resemble the natural tooth. Ceramic fillings are also very durable. They are also stain resistant. However, ceramic fillings cost more than other types of fillings.

Composite Fillings

They make this type of fillings from resin and plastic material. Composite resin is a popular option for tooth filling because it is made to resemble the natural tooth. Dentists place the filling into the tooth while it is soft and almost in a liquid state and then cure it with a light. The major disadvantage of composite fillings is that they are not long-lasting.

If you have tooth decay, you need to visit your dentist before the decay becomes worse. When picking the right filling material for you, it is best to consult with your dentist. The dentist will recommend a suitable option for you that is within your budget.

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Dental Blog • Nancy Shiba, DDS
Nancy Shiba, DDS, 125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1914 - (669) 306-7669 - nancyshibadds.com - 12/3/2024