Types of Cavity Fillings
Many options are available for tooth fillings, all have pros and cons. Types of fillings include gold, silver amalgams and tooth-colored composite materials.
Amalgam fillings have been used by dentists for more than a century, it is the most researched material used for filling cavities. Amalgam fillings are strong and are therefore ideal for filling cavities in the posterior of the mouth, most commonly, molars. They are made of a combination of several metallic elements, amalgam fillings can be noticeable when you laugh, smile or open your mouth. They are the least expensive of all cavity-filling materials.
Composite Fillings sometimes referred to filled resins, these fillings feature a combination of glass or quarts filler and can be made to match the color of your tooth. Composite fillings are also fairly durable and are ideal for small to mid-size restorations in areas of your mouth that perform moderate chewing.
Many patients also want to replace silver-colored amalgam fillings containing mercury because concerns have been raised about their potential impact on long-term health. Los Angeles dentist Dr. Elyassi and his team remove amalgam fillings safely and substituting a non-toxic resin composite filling.
Tooth-colored are more attractive, has fluoride to prevent further decay, and the resin (a type of plastic) strengthens the tooth. Replacements require a mold to be taken and sent to a top dental lab to design an exact fit (requiring a second visit to finalize).
Gold Fillings are also used to fill tooth cavities. Gold is the most expensive material compared to amalgam and composite fillings. Gold and amalgam fillings can last as long as 10-15 years before they need to be replaced.
Ceramic Fillings are usually made of porcelain and are tooth colored and may less likely to stain over the composite filling. The drawback to ceramic fillings is that they are as expensive as gold fillings.
Glass Ionomer fillings are a blend of acrylic and glass to create a cavity filling that releases fluoride to help protect the teeth, these fillings are the most commonly used restoration at Wilshire Dental Studio. These fillings will last at least five years.
To have an examination to see whether you have cavities that need to be treated and find out the status of your overall oral health, call Wilshire Smile Studio now for an appointment: 323-DENTIST (336-8478).
