When faced with a cavity or dental decay, selecting the appropriate type of dental filling is crucial for maintaining oral health and restoring the functionality of your teeth. Dental fillings not only repair damaged teeth but also prevent further decay from progressing. Let’s explore different types of dental fillings to help you make an informed decision about your dental care.

types of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are materials used to fill cavities and restore the structure and function of teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. They can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth. Here are some of the most common types of fillings.

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored or white fillings, are a popular choice due to their natural appearance and ability to blend seamlessly with the natural tooth color. They are made of a mixture of resin and finely ground glass-like particles, and are commonly used for filling cavities in visible teeth. Composite fillings offer several benefits, including aesthetics, conservation of tooth structure, versatility, and durability. The procedure involves the removal of decayed or damaged portions of the tooth, application of the composite material in layers, curing each layer with a special light, and shaping and polishing the filling for a natural look and feel. Composite fillings are not as resilient as other types but can still last for 5-10 years before needing to be redone.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings, often referred to as silver fillings, are composed of a combination of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. They have been used for over a century and are known for their strength and durability. Amalgam fillings are cost-effective and relatively easy to place. They are suitable for filling cavities in molars and areas where chewing forces are greatest. However, their silver color is more noticeable compared to composite fillings. The amalgam materials are quite durable, lasting anywhere from 12-20 years, but it can be difficult to find a dentist that even uses these fillings anymore.

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings, also known as porcelain or ceramic inlays and onlays, are custom-made restorations created in a dental laboratory. They offer excellent aesthetics and durability, but can be costly. Ceramic fillings are bonded to the tooth and are resistant to staining. They usually require two dental visits: during the first visit, the tooth is prepared, and an impression is taken; the custom-made filling is then bonded to the tooth during the second visit. These types of fillings are usually reserved for larger areas of damage to the tooth.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are made from a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals. They are highly durable and have been used in dentistry for decades. Gold fillings are known for their longevity and ability to withstand chewing forces without wearing down. They are biocompatible and well-tolerated by gum tissues. Similar to ceramic fillings, gold fillings require two dental visits for preparation and placement. The material used is incredibly durable, withstanding up to 30 years of use. All of that being said, these types of fillings have been largely discontinued due to the prohibitively expensive costs of gold and many dental schools no longer teach the technique.

Dental Fillings in Colorado Springs, CO