Dental fillings are an important way to restore your smile. Best yet, you have several options based on your aesthetic and financial goals. At Portrait Dental, we offer a range of tooth-filling options to suit your unique needs. So let’s uncover your options for dental fillings and help you make the best possible choice for your smile and wallet!
Without further ado, join us as we explore the five types of tooth fillings and their benefits. And remember, Portrait Denta helps you make an informed choice for your dental care!
Amalgam Dental Fillings
Durable Amalgam fillings have stood the test of time! Why? Their durability and longevity stand up to even the worst of instances! Composed of a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, and other materials, amalgam fillings are an affordable and effective option for restoring decayed teeth. Naturally, they are incredibly strong and wear-resistant. This makes them ideal for restoring molars and teeth that withstand heavy chewing forces. However, some patients may have concerns about their appearance or potential allergic reactions to mercury. In that case, let’s discuss one of the most popular dental filling choices!
Composite Resin
Beauty Meets Functionality! If you prefer a more aesthetically pleasing option, composite resin fillings might be the perfect choice. These tooth-coloured fillings are designed to match the natural colour of your teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile. Not to mention, composite resin fillings are versatile. As such, they help to restore decayed, chipped, or worn teeth while preserving the tooth’s structure. They are an excellent choice for front teeth or visible areas in the mouth. However, they may not be as durable as amalgam fillings and may require more frequent replacement. With that in mind, let’s take a look at how ceramic fillings compare!
Ceramic Dental Fillings
Looking for aesthetic excellence and strength to go with it? For those seeking the ultimate in aesthetics and strength, ceramic fillings are an excellent option. Made from high-quality porcelain, ceramic fillings mimic the appearance of natural teeth and are virtually indistinguishable. Subsequently, they offer a beautiful, tooth-coloured restoration that blends seamlessly with your smile.
Ceramic fillings are highly durable and can withstand the forces of chewing, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. With options like inlays and onlays, ceramic fillings can also preserve more of the tooth’s structure, resulting in less removal of healthy tooth material. Keep in mind that ceramic fillings can be more costly than other options and may require multiple dental visits.
Glass Ionomer
Glass ionomer fillings offer a unique combination of strength and fluoride release. What does this mean exactly? To begin, these fillings become the ideal choice for cavity-prone teeth. As they release fluoride over time, they help to prevent future cavities and promote better oral health. They are also versatile and can be used for various dental applications, including fillings in non-load-bearing areas. Glass ionomer fillings have a tooth-like appearance, but they may not be as wear-resistant as other types of fillings, and their use is limited in load-bearing teeth.
Gold Dental Fillings
Though unappealing to many due to their classic appearance, gold dental fillings remain a classic and durable option. Their durability cannot be understated! Made from a mixture of gold and other metals, these fillings offer unmatched strength and wear resistance. They provide a precise fit and are highly biocompatible. Furthermore, gold fillings are ideal for restoring molars and teeth that endure significant chewing forces. However, some patients may be concerned about their cost and appearance, as gold fillings are more noticeable than other tooth-coloured options.
Stay up to date with our blog for a future post about the fascinating history of gold in dental procedures! You’ll be fascinated to know that from ancient Vikings to Egyptians and yes, of course, pirates, gold played an important role in historical dental health!
Choose Portrait Dental to Restore Your Smile
Choosing the right tooth filling is crucial for restoring your smile and maintaining good oral health. From amalgam to gold, there are many options for you to choose from. At Portrait Dental, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process. After all, it’s our job to help you make the best decision for your unique needs! Whether you prefer the durability of amalgam, the aesthetics of composite resin, the beauty of ceramic, the fluoride release of glass ionomer, or the classic appeal of gold, we have the perfect tooth filling for you. Schedule a consultation with us today and let us restore your smile to its full glory!