When you face the process of having one or more teeth filled due to tooth decay, you possibly wonder what type of fillings you need. Options for today’s dental fillings include some of those of the past, such as metal amalgam and gold. Other people can see these in your mouth, as they reflect light and vary from natural tooth color. But choices of resin or glass ionomer, porcelain or composite fillings look like your natural tooth material.

Obviously for the sake of keeping your fillings a secret between you and your dentist, tooth colored fillings work best. Of these options, the most convenient, cost-effective and widely used method is for a composite material. Learn more about composite and other types of fillings to make the best decision for your smile and bite.

Amalgam Fillings

Woman in dentist chair experiencing composite fillings set with ultraviolet lightAmalgam fillings have long worked to preserve peoples’ teeth, dating back more than 150 years. These contain a mix of metals, mostly mercury with tin, copper, silver or zinc. These provide the lowest cost and great, long-lasting strength.

The downside of amalgam fillings is their visibility in your mouth. These start silver and shiny, then becoming darker and more visible over time. They also contain mercury, a material many people try to avoid.

Composite Fillings

Composite tooth fillings made of powdered glass and acrylic resin provide several advantages over amalgam fillings. First, these match your teeth. Your dentist chooses a tooth colored fillings shade that most closely resembles your natural smile. This makes your tooth appear “whole” and natural to people around you.

But composite fillings may not last as long as amalgam. Composite materials also may not as effectively withstand intense pressure of chewing teeth, like your molars. Still, many people prefer these “invisible” tooth colored fillings over other types.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings cost more than others, as you might expect. But gold proves very long-lasting and durable on your teeth. Most of these last 20 years or more. With gold, it takes longer to craft your tooth restoration. These indirect, gold fillings take extra time at the dentist’s office when compared to amalgam or composite fillings.

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings are indirect, like gold. This means you must visit the dentist more than once to complete this process. These also cost more than amalgam or composite fillings, yet still look like your natural teeth. Porcelain fillings lack durability as they break easily.

Resin or Glass Ionomer

Resin or glass fillings work well on baby teeth in children. These only fill small cavities due to their delicate nature. If adults receive these fillings, they work best only on surfaces not used in chewing.

If you face making decisions about fillings for your teeth, do not worry about those choices. Your dentist helps you make the right decision based on the position of the cavity requiring the filling and your budget. You have the chance to discuss these options before the filling process begins.

Orlando, Florida Cavity Fillings

At S. Keith Mahan, DDS in Orlando, your dental care is in good hands. Dr. Mahan and his expert staff work hard to provide you with the highest quality of dental services, including:

Schedule your visit with S. Keith Mahan, DDS now to learn more about composite fillings and other methods of treating your cavities. Call 407-841-7241 to set your appointment now.