If you have any decay or broken teeth, you will need a filling to repair the tooth. Fillings help to restore the teeth back to their normal shape, size, and strength. There are different types of fillings you can get. Here are some examples of fillings you can choose from or may already have:
Silver Amalgam Fillings
If you are an adult and had fillings done in your childhood, you may notice some silver in your teeth. These are silver amalgam fillings and were widely used until a different option was available. There are different types of metals used in silver amalgam fillings. Some examples of the metals in these fillings include mercury, copper, and silver. These types of fillings are not as widely used but are still offered and are a great choice when you need a durable filling.
Composite Fillings
The most common type of fillings used today is made from composite material. They are also referred to as resin fillings. This filing uses a composite of resin types to form the structure of the new tooth. This type of filling is used most often because they are strong, and they can be shaded to match your current teeth. These fillings look natural and can be placed in almost any part of your mouth without anyone noticing. This type of filling material is not fully solidified when it is first applied. After the material is placed, the filling is cured with ultraviolet light to fully harden the tooth.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are also a possible remedy for a broken or decayed tooth. Ceramic fillings are long-lasting and can be customized to match the rest of your teeth. Ceramic fillings are constructed from porcelain, which helps them resist stains and abrasion. The ceramic filling material is more costly because of the strength and quality of the material.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Another type of filling is made from acrylic and is known as glass ionomer. This is a good option for little cavities. These are often used in baby teeth in children. This material does not last as long as other types of filling material. The material helps to keep more decay away and even release fluoride into the teeth. This helps to keep the tooth strong until it falls out naturally.
If you need fillings and are interested in a certain type of material, be sure to discuss your options with your dentist.
