To cure a cavity, your dentist will remove the decaying portion of the tooth and then “fill” the gap left by the decayed material on the tooth. Fillings can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth, as well as teeth that have worn down due to wear and tear (such as from nail-biting or tooth grinding).
What are the several types of fillings?
Let’s begin with an overview of dental fillings. Your dentist will go over the several materials that can be used to fill the cavity. The following materials are some of the most commonly utilized options:
- Silver-color fillings – These are metal amalgams, which are made up of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This substance is more durable than tooth-colored fillings and, in general, less expensive. Although some people are concerned about the mercury level, doctors have found no clinical evidence that amalgam fillings are dangerous, although they are being phased out.
- White tooth-colored fillings (composites) – These are made of glass or quartz particles mixed with acrylic resin. This substance is more expensive than metal amalgams but lasts longer.
- Gold fillings – This combination of gold, copper, and other metals is extremely durable, although it is more expensive. They also don’t appear natural. After your dentist makes an impression of your tooth, gold fillings are often produced in a lab.
- Glass ionomer fillings – These are tooth-colored as well, although not as strong as composites. They are made of acrylic and a form of glass that contains fluoride, which can aid in the prevention of cavities. They are more expensive than amalgams and are frequently used for children’s teeth.
- Porcelain fillings – These are around the same price as gold fillings, and appear to be natural. After your dentist makes an impression of your tooth, they are created in a lab.
Benefits of tooth fillings
Visit Long Falls Dentistry, if you are looking for the best cosmetic dentistry services in Carthage, NY. The following are the advantages of tooth filling.
Tooth Fillings do More Than Remedy Cavities
Dental fillings are commonly thought to be solely useful in cases of tooth decay. Though fillings are most typically used to repair decayed areas of teeth, they also have other functions. Tooth fillings can also be used to heal fractured or broken teeth.
Fillings Can Last Upwards of 15 Years
If you choose cast gold fillings or porcelain fillings, they will last for up to 15 years. Some of these fillings can survive for years. Today’s fillings are highly corrosion resistant. Though a filling that lasts up to two decades will cost a little extra, it will protect your tooth for a long time and give you important peace of mind.
Tooth Fillings Can Strengthen a Weakened Structured Tooth
When the existing tooth structure is weakened to the point where a traditional filling cannot be supported, indirect fillings are the best option. If the damage has not progressed to the point where a crown is required, an indirect filling in the form of an onlay or inlay will be far more effective than a typical filling.
Infections Can Be Prevented With Tooth Fillings
If you require dental work, such as a root canal, across several visits, a temporary tooth filling can be inserted to give the tooth and gums enough time to heal. This temporary tooth also permits the nerves to relax before the permanent filling. The use of a temporary filling prevents the exposed tooth from becoming infected while you wait.
We hope our blog has helped you understand the importance of dental fillings. If you are looking for the best dental care in Carthage, NY, visit Long Falls Dentistry. Our dental staff provides the best solutions for all of your dental problems.
