Tooth Fillings
Are you suffering from sensitivity of the teeth due to loss of enamel? Has decay damaged your tooth? Or your tooth suffers from minor fracturing or chipping? The tooth filling is the perfect treatment used to correct tooth damage and restore the tooth to its structure and function. The process of getting a tooth filling requires you to visit Springs Dental clinic to see our dentist and know what type of filling will be appropriate for you.
If you have tooth decay, you must receive treatment as soon as possible. If it is not treated in time, the tooth decay will gradually worsen, which will affect the fragile tissues and nerves deep under the tooth. Early treatment can prevent serious complications such as nerve damage and tooth loss.
The choice of dental fillings
Fillers have been around for many years, and there are many other types besides traditional metal fillers. You can choose the following:
- Amalgam filling- Amalgam has been used to fill tooth decay for more than 100 years and is still widely used today. It is a flexible combination of metal elements, including mercury, silver, tin, copper, and other metal elements. Since the amalgam is silvery-white, it blends with the natural aesthetics of your teeth.
- Composite materials- A composite material is a tooth-colored material made of glass or quartz and resin. Composite fillers are more durable, look more natural, and more expensive than amalgam fillers as well. Also, composite fillers may stain over time.
- Glass ionomer filler- Like composite fillers, glass ionomer fillers are also tooth-colored materials. It is made of acrylic and glass and is often used to fill dental caries. Glass ionomer fillers can also release fluoride ions, preventing further tooth decay. Since glass ionomer fillings are not as durable as amalgam or composite fillings, they are best used to fill teeth that are not often rubbed during chewing.
- Resin ion filler- Similar to glass ion, it looks natural and is made of acrylic and glass. They are usually used to fill small holes between teeth or roots.
- Customized dental restoration- In some cases, the dentist may need to make fillings based on your teeth in the laboratory. This type of filling includes a custom inlay that fills the removed portion of the tooth and crowns that cover the tooth’s top and sides. At least two visits to the dentist are required to place the restoration fully. These restorations can be made of ceramics, metal alloys, gold, or composite materials. Ceramic restorations are strong and durable, but they can irritate neighboring teeth. Gold and metal alloys have strong elasticity, but this depends on the teeth’ position and is very obvious.
If you have tooth decay, consult our experienced dentists about the advantages and disadvantages of various filling options according to your preferences. After assessing your overall oral health and preferences, they will help you decide the suitable fillings for your teeth.
