What Are the Different Types of Tooth Fillings? | Dental Fillings Types

Do you frequently visit a dentist near you for dental exams? If not, it would be wise to start doing so sooner than later. One of the most common oral problems that a dentist will detect is a dental cavity. The good thing about catching cavities early is that you do not need a tooth extraction. Instead, our dentist in Pflugerville, TX will recommend dental fillings, to repair the damaged tooth.

What are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are oral materials that dentists use to repair and restore teeth’ enamel. The role of a dental filling is to substitute the damaged portion of a tooth enamel.

When Do Dentists Administer Dental Fillings?

Dentists are notorious for employing dental fillings to save natural teeth instead of tooth extraction. Some of the instances dentists recommend dental fillings are:

1. Tooth Cavities and Dental Decay – dental fillings are the most popular treatment solutions for cavities and tooth decay. When you have a cavity, it features a hole in your tooth. A tooth filling will fill the existing hole sealing your tooth to prevent further damage and infection.
2. Tooth Fractures – one of the ways to treat a cracked or broken tooth is using a dental filling.
3. Dentin Hypersensitivity – dentists can recommend dental fillings to help overcome tooth sensitivity.
4. Preventive Dental Care – did you know that some dental fillings can help prevent oral infections in your teeth? The dental fillings create a barrier over the chewing surfaces of the molars, filling the deep pits and fissures.

What are the Different Types of Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings types vary depending on the material they feature. The types available at The Grand Family Dental include the following:

1) Gold Fillings

Gold fillings feature gold, a sturdy material that is ideal for restoring the back teeth. The conspicuous color of gold can make these dental fillings unsuitable for some patients, particularly in restoring the front teeth. Besides, gold fillings can be expensive for the average patient to afford.

2) Silver Fillings

Silver fillings are also known as amalgams and feature a metal alloy of zinc, copper, mercury, and silver as the primary metal. Amalgams are popular in dentistry, particularly for repairing the back teeth. Although silver fillings are sturdy, some patients detest their colors. Besides, some people have allergic reactions to metal alloys, especially considering the mercury element.

3) Composite Fillings

They are aesthetically pleasing dental fillings, perfect for improving your smile. Composite features a tooth-colored resin, which is why these fillings are sometimes called white fillings. Composite fillings are perfect for preventive and restorative dental care. However, they do not last as long as their counterparts.

4) Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings are ideal alternatives to composite fillings. They feature fillings created into one solid piece, either into an onlay or inlay. They closely compete with gold fillings regarding sturdiness and also cost.

5) Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are perhaps the most unique dental fillings in dentistry. They feature acrylic and are suited for preventive dental care. They are also called dental sealants, which release fluoride on teeth to strengthen them and lower the risk of dental cavities.

What are the Benefits of Getting Dental Fillings?

Once you are set on the preferred type of dental filling, consider the following benefits of getting dental fillings:

1. A tooth filling preserves natural teeth to prevent tooth extractions.
2. They are minimally invasive compared to other treatment protocols for damaged teeth like root canals or tooth extractions.
3. Dental fillings prevent the progression of oral infections that can realize more oral complications.
4. A tooth filling can help treat dental pain, discomfort, and sensitivity.
5. They help restore normal tooth function so you can eat and chew normally.
6. Oral fillings can help improve oral hygiene by overcoming the deep fissures of teeth.
7. Some types of dental fillings can improve teeth’ color by covering up underlying stains. It is especially evident when dental cavities begin to blacken or brown your teeth.

Get Tooth Fillings Near You

Consider dental fillings if you are looking for a dental solution to repair your diseased tooth without extraction. They are available in different materials to suit individual preferences. If you are looking to get tooth fillings near Windemere, TX, consult our dentist near you for further guidance about getting dental fillings in Pflugerville, TX!