Fillings

Many Options to Repair, Prevent Tooth Damage

Dentists use dental fillings to restore the normal function and shape of teeth that decay has damaged. Fillings close off spaces where bacteria can enter, helping to prevent further decay.

Materials used for fillings include porcelain, gold, a composite resin (tooth-colored fillings), and an amalgam resin (an alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc).

WHICH TYPE OF DENTAL FILLING IS BEST?

There is no one type of filling that is best for everyone. At Brewer Dental Center, we believe the extent of the repair you require, whether you have allergies to certain materials, the location in your mouth where you need the filling, and the cost you can afford will determine the best option for you.

Gold Fillings are made in a a lab to order, and then a dentist cements them into place. Gum tissues tolerate them well, and they may last more than 20 years. For these reasons, many dentists consider gold the best filling material. However, it is often the most expensive choice and requires multiple visits.

Amalgam (silver) fillings are resistant to wear and relatively inexpensive. However, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations because of their dark color. For this reason, dentists usually use them in less visible back teeth. Dentists are reducing the use of silver fillings more often in favor of composite “white” fillings.

Composite (plastic) resins are used when a natural appearance is preferable. Dentists match them to be the same color as your teeth. They mix the ingredients and place them directly into the cavity, where the ingredients harden. Over time, composites may chip or wear so they may not be the ideal material for large fillings. Additionally, they can also become stained from coffee, tea or tobacco. They do not last as long as other types of fillings (from three to 10 years).

Porcelain fillings (inlays or onlays) are produced to order in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. You can match them to the color of the tooth and they resist stains. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth. Their cost is similar to gold.

What to Expect During a filling

1. Local anesthesia – the dentist will give you local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth at the beginning of the procedure.
2. Tooth decay removal – we will then remove any decay and prepare the space for the filling material.
3. Etching – for a bonded filling, we will etch the tooth with an acid gel before placing your filling.
4. Resin application – for certain types of fillings we will layer on the resin and harden it using a bright light to make it strong.
5. Polishing – after we place the filling, we will polish the tooth to remove any residue.

Not sure if you need a filling – or two? Let the Brewer Dental experts be the judge of that. Contact is today or schedule an appointment online and BDC can give you a thorough exam. Don’t forget to visit our Facebook!