Dental fillings (Tooth Fillings) are a common procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. They can be made from a variety of materials, including composite resin, amalgam, and gold.
Dental fillings are used to replace the missing part of a tooth and essentially filling the hole that is present. First, your decay is removed. The cavity is then filled with an appropriate filling material (as outlined below).
There are several different types of dental fillings to choose from, including:
White Filling, Silver Filling, Gold Filling
Amalgam fillings are silver in colour and made up of a mixture of silver, tin, copper and mercury. They have been used in dentistry for hundreds of years and have proven to be a strong, long lasting material. Some people may worry about the mercury within the amalgam, however, once it is combined with the other materials it is perfectly safe. Research into the safety of dental amalgam has been carried out over many years and so far there has been no connection found between amalgam fillings resulting in medical problems.
Composite fillings are tooth coloured and are made up of a resin material. They are bonded to the tooth surface. Traditionally it was thought that composites are not as strong as amalgam fillings, however, advances in materials have shown that they can last just as long. This is, however, dependant on the shape and size of the cavity and location in the mouth. Composite fillings can stain over time. Some patients prefer composite over amalgam fillings as they look more natural.
Composite resin fillings are durable and can be used to repair small to medium-sized cavities.
Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride over time and are therefore ideal for use on children’s teeth to help prevent more decay. However, as they are a weaker material they are not ideal for long-term use on the biting surfaces of adult teeth – They can, however, work well on the necks of the teeth.
Fillings, regardless of type and colour are not indestructible. They can fall out, break, chip, leak, especially if decay develops around them. It is therefore important to look after your fillings once they have been placed and come in for regular check ups so that any signs of problems around your fillings can be detected early.
Dental fillings are used to replace the missing part of a tooth and essentially filling the hole that is present. First, your decay is removed. The cavity is then filled with an appropriate filling material (as outlined below).
Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy and are known for their durability and longevity. They are more expensive than other types of fillings and are not commonly used due to their cost and appearance.
The process for getting a dental filling typically involves the following steps:
Getting a dental filling is generally not a painful procedure. The Dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, so you should only feel pressure during the procedure. After the anesthetic wears off, you may feel some sensitivity or discomfort, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. It’s important to follow your Dentist’s instructions for care after the procedure to help ensure a smooth recovery.
Read more about the difference between white and silver dental tooth fillings in our blog post here: Fillings: Silver Fillings vs White Fillings
White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a popular alternative to traditional silver-coloured fillings. Instead of a mixture of metals, white fillings are made of a tooth-coloured plastic coating that is chemically bonded to the natural tooth structure.
These fillings are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural tooth colour, making them a popular choice among patients who want to maintain the aesthetic appeal of their smile. The composite material used for white fillings is made up of a durable resin polymer material layered with hybrid glass ceramics and silicon dioxide. This creates a durable, strong filling that can withstand the normal wear and tear on teeth.
White fillings offer many benefits, including the ability to protect the natural tooth structure from further damage. They can also help to restore the tooth to its natural shape, allowing patients to retain their natural tooth structure and prevent the need for more invasive dental procedures.
While white fillings are a great option for many patients, it’s important to note that they may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with large cavities or damage to the tooth structure may require a different type of filling material. Likewise, individuals with a history of tooth decay or oral health issues may need to take additional steps to maintain their oral health after receiving white fillings.
Overall, white fillings are a safe and effective option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. With the proper care and regular trips to an experienced and professional dentist, patients can enjoy the cosmetic and health benefits of this innovative dental filling technology.
When it comes to dental fillings, the traditional silver amalgam fillings have been the go-to option for many years. However, with advancements in dental technology and a growing concern for aesthetic appeal, white fillings have become a popular alternative. But why should you consider white fillings?
One of the biggest advantages of white fillings is their ability to blend in with the natural colour of your teeth. Unlike silver fillings that stand out against your pearly whites, white fillings are tooth-coloured and virtually invisible. This means that you can maintain the natural look of your smile, even after having dental work done.
Aside from their aesthetic appeal, white fillings also offer many practical benefits. For one, they are designed to bond chemically with your tooth, making them secure and durable. This means that they won’t shift or break like traditional silver fillings. Additionally, white fillings require less drilling into the tooth, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
If you’re interested in exploring your options further, be sure to speak with an experienced dentist who can recommend the best option for your unique dental needs.
First and foremost, the most apparent advantage of white fillings is their ability to blend in with the natural colour of your teeth. Unlike silver fillings that stand out against your pearly whites, white fillings are tooth-coloured and virtually invisible. This means that you can maintain the natural look of your smile, even after having dental work done. The aesthetic appeal of white fillings is a significant reason why they are particularly popular among those who prioritise the appearance of their teeth.
Speaking of preserving your tooth structure, white fillings also offer greater protection against further damage. With silver fillings, the metal can expand and contract with temperature changes, which can weaken the tooth and increase the likelihood of fractures. White fillings, on the other hand, do not expand or contract, making them a safer choice for your dental health. White fillings are less likely to cause oral health problems like tooth decay and post-operative sensitivity.
In conclusion, the advantages of white fillings are significant and vary from aesthetic benefits to oral health advantages. They are more natural-looking, safer for your teeth, and provide a more durable solution than traditional silver fillings. Nowadays, more and more dental patients are choosing white fillings over silver fillings due to their numerous benefits. By having a professional dentist install white fillings, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that will last for years to come.
J
Jeffrey Mullen
“I attended Thames Street Dental as a new patient. I found the staff there friendly and reassuring. The dentist did a checkup on my teeth, then she did some work on two fillings and did a dental cleanup for me. She also gave me helpful advice. And none of this hurt. I’m a satisfied customer and, based on my experience, I would recommend Thames Street Dental.”
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