February 17, 2023
Keeping your teeth healthy and strong is always a priority. But sometimes, cavities and other serious issues might require you to get a dental filling. To help you better protect your teeth and understand your treatment options, this article explores the different types of dental fillings, the materials they are made from, and the potential associated allergy risks. Read on to learn more!
Overview of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by cavities or fractures. The most common type of dental filling is amalgam filling, made from a mixture of metals, including silver, copper, and tin. Amalgam fillings are strong and durable, but they can be noticeable because of their silver colour.
Composite fillings are made from a plastic resin that can match your teeth’ colour. Composite fillings are less visible than amalgam fillings, but they may only last for a while.
Gold and porcelain are also used to make dental fillings. Gold fillings are expensive, but they can last for many years. Porcelain fillings are also called inlays or onlays, which are made to match the colour of your tooth. Porcelain is a strong material that can chip or break if you bite down on hard food or objects.
There is also a type of dental filling called a glass ionomer filling. Glass ionomer filling material contains fluoride, which helps to prevent cavities. Glass ionomer fillings are not as strong as other types of dental fillings, so they are usually used in small holes or in areas where there is not a lot of biting force (such as in between the teeth).
- If you have an allergy to metals (such as nickel), you can get an alternative type of dental filling.
- Types of Dental Fillings: Amalgam, Gold, Porcelain, and Composite
- There are four dental fillings: amalgam, gold, porcelain, and composite.
Amalgam is the most common type of dental filling. It is made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Amalgam is solid and durable, and it can last for many years. However, it is also the most visible type of dental filling, so it may not be the best option if you are concerned about aesthetics.
Gold is the second most common type of dental filling. It is made from gold alloy and other metals, such as platinum or palladium. Gold fillings are solid and durable and can last many years. They are also less visible than amalgam fillings, so if you are concerned about aesthetics, they may be a better option. However, gold fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings.
Porcelain is the third most common type of dental filling. It is made from ceramic materials that match the colour of your teeth. Porcelain fillings are less visible than amalgam or gold fillings, so if you are concerned about aesthetics, they may be a good option. However, porcelain fillings are more expensive than amalgam or gold fillings.
Composite is the fourth most common type of dental filling. It is made from a mixture of plastic and glass materials that match.
Pros and Cons of Different Materials
There are three primary types of dental fillings: amalgam, composite, and ceramic. Each type of filling has its own unique set of pros and cons.
Amalgam Fillings:
- Pros: Amalgam fillings are strong and durable, making them ideal for use in areas of the mouth that experience a lot of wear and tear. They are also much less expensive than other types of fillings.
- Cons: Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which some patients may be concerned about for health reasons. Additionally, amalgam fillings are less aesthetically pleasing than other fillings and can discolour the tooth over time.
Composite Fillings:
- Pros: Composite fillings are made from a resin material that can match the colour of your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible. They can also be used in smaller cavities where a more conservative approach is desired.
- Cons: Composite fillings are less strong and durable than amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced more frequently. They are also more expensive than amalgam fillings.
Ceramic Fillings:1) CeramicFilligs usually last much longer than their metal counterparts – sometimes 10 to 15 years longer with proper care2) CeramicFilligs also tend to match the natural colour of your teeth better, so they’re less noticeable3) Unlike metal filings which conduct heat and cold well
Allergy Risks for Dental Filling Materials
Dental fillings are made of materials that are safe for most people. However, some people may be allergic to the materials used in dental fillings. The most common allergies associated with dental fillings are to metals such as nickel and mercury. Other less common allergies include reactions to the resins used to make composite fillings.
Suppose you have an allergy to one of the materials used in dental fillings. In that case, your dentist will work with you to find a filling material that is safe for you. This may sometimes mean using a different filling or another brand of composite resin. If you have a severe allergy, your dentist may recommend avoiding dental fillings altogether.
Alternatives to Dental Fillings
When it comes to dental fillings, there are a few different types and materials you can choose from. The most common type of dental filling is made from amalgam, a mix of metals including silver, copper, and tin. If you’re looking for an alternative to amalgam fillings, a few options are available.
Composite fillings are made from a mix of plastic and glass particles, and they can be matched to the colour of your teeth, so they’re less visible. Gold or porcelain inlays and onlays are options for dental fillings, offering durability and strength. If you have concerns about the materials used in dental fillings, talk to your dentist to discuss your options.
Conclusion
In this article, we have taken a comprehensive look at dental fillings and their various types, materials, and associated allergy risks. Ultimately it is up to you and your dentist to decide what type of filling is best for you. Be sure to ask about any potential allergies or sensitivities that may exist before having a filling placed so that you can make an informed decision about the treatment that’s right for you. With proper care, these fillings can last many years and help protect your tooth from further decay.