TYPE OF TOOTH FILLINGS

If you are experiencing tooth pain, it may be because of a cavity. If this is the case, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible, because left untreated, cavities can turn into more serious conditions that require more extensive dental work including root canals and extractions. The most common treatment for a cavity is a tooth filling. These fillings are relatively painless and for the most part, take care of the issue right away. One of the questions that you will be asked before getting a tooth filling is, what material do you want your filling to be made of. There are 3 common types of materials that fillings are made of: amalgam, composite resin, and cast gold. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is summary of each.

Amalgam

Amalgam fillings are made from a combination of silver, copper, zinc, tin, and mercury. Amalgam fillings typically last around 10 years before needing to be replaced. This material is the least expensive of all of the filling materials. Some advantages are its strength. Amalgam is a strong composite that holds up well to the forces of chewing. They are less sensitive to moisture, especially compared to resin and they typically can be done in one dental visit. There are a few disadvantages. The most notice is the color. Amalgam will not match the color of your teeth and it may tarnish over time. The installation of amalgam also requires the dentist to carve out more of your tooth in order to fit the filling. Amalgam does not bond to your tooth. Some people are also allergic to the metal composite.

Composite Resin

Composite resin fillings are made from a mixture of fine glass particles and plastic. Resin fillings last around 5 years. They are more expensive than Amalgam, but less than gold. Some of the advantages include color. The resin can be made to match the color of your teeth. The fillings also bond to your tooth, so there is less drilling and invasiveness in the procedure. They are also very strong fillings because they are heat cured. There are a few disadvantages as well. Resin fillings do not last as long as amalgam, despite their strength. There is a chance that the filling will shrink when heated for placement, which may cause small gaps. These gaps may ultimately lead to future cavities. The procedure for resin takes longer than amalgam as well.

Cast Gold

Cast gold tooth fillings are made from a gold alloy. Cast gold fillings last up to 15 years. They are the most expensive of the bunch. They typically cost 6 to 10 times as much as amalgam. The advantages to gold fillings are their durability. Gold fillings are strong and stand up well to the forces of chewing. They also do not corrode over time. Some people also like the gold color. The disadvantages are related to cost and time. Gold fillings cost more and have to be done over at least two dental visits. Gold fillings are also not a good idea if you have amalgam fillings in close proximity, or might have to get amalgam someday. Your saliva can interact with all of the metals and cause a electric current in your mouth, which can be uncomfortable.

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