Dental fillings play an essential role in maintaining good oral health. If you have a cavity or a damaged tooth, a filling can help restore its strength and function. Furthermore, Dental Land in Summerhill, Ontario, provides various types of dental fillings to meet your needs. This guide will examine the various types of dental fillings in Toronto and their benefits.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings restore teeth damaged by decay or injury. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, a dentist fills the space with a suitable material. Fillings prevent additional damage, restore the tooth’s functionality, and mitigate the risk of future cavities. People use various types of dental fillings for health and cosmetic purposes.
Types of Dental Fillings
When it comes to the types of dental fillings, patients have several materials to choose from. The right dental filling depends on factors such as the cavity’s location, the amount of pressure the tooth experiences, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Moreover, the most common types of dental fillings are listed below, along with their individual benefits.
Read More: The Best Material for Dental Fillings
1. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
Amalgam fillings contain a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. These fillings are extremely strong, long-lasting, and resistant to wear. They’re ideal for back teeth, which experience heavy chewing forces. Although amalgam fillings are one of the practical and durable types of dental fillings, their silver-gray color contrasts with the natural color of your teeth. This makes them less desirable for visible areas.
2. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)
Composite fillings consist of resin and glass particles that match the natural color of your teeth. These fillings blend well with your smile, making them a popular choice for visible cavities. Composite fillings are durable but may not last as long as amalgam fillings, particularly in high-pressure areas. Patients choose them for their natural appearance and feel.
3. Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain, which gives them a tooth-like appearance. They resist staining and are more durable than composite fillings. Patients who prioritize both aesthetics and strength often opt for ceramic fillings. While they are more expensive than other options, ceramic fillings provide an excellent balance of durability and natural appearance.
Selecting the Ideal Type of Dental Filling
Each type of dental filling has its own set of advantages based on your specific needs. For patients looking for a long-lasting solution for a back tooth, amalgam or gold fillings may be ideal. Composite or ceramic fillings are excellent options for a more aesthetically pleasing solution for a visible cavity. In addition, your dentist will assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the types of dental fillings that best meet your dental health and appearance needs.
4. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings combine gold, copper, and other metals. They are highly durable and last for many years, often 15 years or longer. Gold fillings can withstand heavy chewing forces, making them an excellent option for back teeth. Although highly durable, the noticeable gold color may be unsuitable for patients who prefer a more subtle appearance. However, gold is an excellent choice if you require a long-lasting and durable filling.
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings combine acrylic and glass. They release fluoride, which helps to protect teeth from future decay. However, glass ionomer fillings, such as root surfaces, are less durable than other options, commonly used for cavities that do not experience high pressure. While they are not the most durable, their fluoride-releasing properties make them an appealing option for those with sensitive teeth.
The Role of Dental Fillings in Your Oral Health
No matter which types of dental fillings you choose, the ultimate goal is to restore the function of your tooth while preventing further decay. By treating cavities early, you can avoid more extensive treatments later on, such as tooth extractions or root canals. Your dentist will work with you to choose the best filling for oral health.
Also Read: Signs You Need a Dental Filling
6. Resilon Fillings
Resilon fillings are a thermoplastic compound primarily used for root canals. They offer a flexible and long-lasting solution for sealing root canals, preventing bacterial reinfection, and providing long-term protection for the treated tooth. Resilon is an excellent biocompatible alternative for patients who require fillings following a root canal procedure.
The types of dental fillings you select are critical to restoring and protecting damaged teeth. Whether you choose amalgam, composite, ceramic, gold, glass ionomer, or resilon fillings, the best option depends on your requirements. Furthermore, at Dental Land in Summerhill, Ontario, we provide a wide range of fillings to accommodate each patient’s particular needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how types of dental fillings can help restore your smile!
