Types of Tooth Fillings

Tooth decay is often repairable with a simple tooth filling! If your dentist finds decay during your regular check up appointment, it is important to receive the advised treatment as soon as possible.

Left untreated, a small amount of decay can grow and spread to other teeth, causing you to need more invasive restorative work. A small filling can quickly grow to a point where a crown is necessary within a few months.

* Composite: Composite fillings are the more common type of filling used. Composite material can be tinted to match the rest of your teeth so is ideal for any decay in a tooth that can be seen when you smile!

Composite bonding is not as strong as other materials so it may not be ideal for posterior teeth that take a lot of your bite force.

* Porcelain: Porcelain is a great option for larger fillings, especially on the posterior teeth.

Porcelain is also able to be tinted to match your teeth so even if you have a large area of decay on a front tooth, a porcelain veneer or crown can be used to restore the tooth without metals.

* Glass Ionomer: Glass ionomer and resin is most frequently used on children’s primary teeth.

* Gold: Gold fillings are one of the more expensive options but are incredibly durable and can be more cost effective in the long run. Gold fillings have to be fabricated in a dental lab so they cannot be completed in one visit like porcelain and composite.

Even though they cost more, gold fillings can last a lifetime whereas porcelain and composite may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years.

* Amalgam: Amalgam fillings have been around for decades and are common for decay and the back teeth.

Amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals such as silver, copper, zinc, or even tin mixed with about 50% mercury. The mercury content can make patients weary but the level of mercury is small enough that it is perfectly safe! Amalgam fillings are one of the least costly options and are incredibly durable.

The biggest drawback is that they are silver and overtime, can become darker, giving your tooth an overall grey appearance.

Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for professional routine dental cleanings is important for your overall oral health. These visits will include dental x-rays that will help your dentist identify any areas of decay or fracture that can potentially be repaired with minimal effort in a tooth filling.

[Cost of Dental Fillings](https://capitaldentaldesign.com/cost-of-tooth-fillings/)

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