Dental Fillings
When your tooth shows signs of decay, your TRU Dental dentist can help to stop it before any further damage is caused. Fillings are applied to small and developing cavities to restore your tooth to its normal shape and prevent any further decay. When a tooth develops a cavity, it creates a hole or void in the tooth structure.
The most common type of filling is dental amalgam, made from a mixture of different metals. Dental amalgam fillings are often used on your back teeth because they’re hard-wearing. The filling material will protect against more damage. Fillings are also useful in helping to repair cracked or broken teeth.
There are several different materials that tooth fillings can be made of.
- Gold
- Silver Amalgam
- Porcelain
- Composite
- Ceramic
- Glass
The choice of filling material depends on factors such as the location of the cavity, the extent of the damage, and the patient’s preferences.
Gold is more expensive than most other materials and may require more than one office visit.
Amalgam (silver-colored) – a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper.
Porcelain lasts longer than metal or resin fillings and is more esthetic; however, it can be more expensive.
Composite (tooth-colored) – made of resin and glass mixture.
Glass ionomer (tooth-colored) – powdered glass, which forms a chemical bond with your tooth and may release fluoride that helps to prevent further decay.
Benefits of Getting Fillings
Dental fillings are primarily used to treat cavities or caries. When tooth decay occurs, a cavity forms, and a filling helps to restore the tooth’s structure and function.
Dental fillings help restore the lost or damaged tooth structure. This is crucial for maintaining the overall integrity and strength of the tooth.