Dental fillings are a common and necessary form of dental restoration for many people. Whether you’re dealing with a broken, chipped, decayed, or otherwise damaged tooth. A filling can help to restore the function and strength of your tooth. But you may be wondering, what types of fillings are available? Thankfully, there are a variety of options that your dentist can recommend based on your individual needs. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of dental fillings available. So, if you’re looking to restore your smile, read on to learn more about the different types of fillings available.
Categories of Dental Tooth Fillings
The specific types of tooth fillings you should choose will depend on a variety of factors. That includes the type of damage your tooth has sustained, the position of your tooth, and your specific dental goals. The most common types of fillings include:
Amalgam/Silver Fillings – Amalgam fillings are one of the most common and widely used types of fillings. They are a mixture of various metals, including silver, copper, and tin. They are widely used because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to create using existing materials in the dental office.
Porcelain/Ceramic Fillings – Porcelain/ceramic fillings are one of the most durable and long-lasting types of fillings available. The teeth of people who have them are often indistinguishable from natural teeth, which may be an advantage.
Gold Fillings – Gold fillings are another type of tooth restoration that may be used to repair damage to the tooth or tooth decay. They are typically more expensive than other types of fillings, but they can also last for many years without needing replacement.
SAPTeeth – SAPTeeth is a group of highly specialized polymers; specially made to protect the bone, implant, or natural tooth. Research shows that ceramic, porcelain, Ni-Cr, and Zirconia teeth exert about 24 to 149 times more stress on bone as compared to SAPTeeth. This difference is due to the shock-absorbing capability of these polymers. Therefore, in patients with weak bone or low calcium, SAPTeeth is recommended over conventional prostheses.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Amalgam/Silver Fillings – Amalgam/silver fillings offer good strength and durability, which makes them a good option for repairing teeth that are prone to breakage or that have large cavities. These fillings are also relatively inexpensive and easy to create, which makes them an appealing option for many dentists. On the downside, amalgam/silver fillings have a less attractive appearance than many other types of fillings.
Porcelain/Ceramic Fillings – These fillings are naturally resistant to decay, which makes them a good option for some people. These fillings are also very durable, which means they can last many years without needing replacement. It also has a natural appearance, which makes them an attractive option for many people. On the downside, porcelain/ceramic fillings are more expensive than many other types of dental fillings.
Gold Tooth Fillings – These are a particularly strong and durable type of filling, which makes them a good option for repairing teeth that have sustained significant damage.
Factors to consider when choosing a Filling
- Level of damage to your tooth – The level of damage to your tooth will play a key role in deciding which type of filling is best for you. For example, a decayed tooth may only need a small restoration that can be repaired with a filling, whereas a broken tooth would require a more significant type of restoration.
- Position of your tooth – The position of your tooth in your mouth is another important factor to keep in mind when choosing a filling. For example, a back tooth may not be suitable for the same type of filling as a front tooth. The position of your tooth will also help determine which filling options you have available.
- Your specific dental goals – Your dental goals are another important factor to consider when choosing a filling. For example, if you’re interested in a more natural-looking tooth, a porcelain/ceramic filling may be a better choice than a silver or composite filling. It’s also important to keep in mind that not all fillings are suitable for all types of dental goals.
- Budget – The type of filling you choose may affect your budget. For example, a gold filling is usually the most costly option, whereas a resin filling is generally less expensive than a ceramic filling.
Conclusion
A dental filling could be the right dental solution for you If you are missing a tooth or teeth. With the right dental filling, you can find comfort, confidence, and a smile that you can be proud of. Choosing the best type of filling for your needs can help to improve both the appearance and function of your smile.
