The Most Common Types of Dental Filling

Ever wondered about dental filling and their types? In this comprehensive post, our dentists shed light on various dental fillings, their commonality, and when they might be the best choice. We’ll also delve into emergency repairs for lost or broken fillings.

Understanding Dental Fillings

Dental fillings, comprised of materials like metal, plastic, glass, and composite substances, serve the purpose of restoring and repairing teeth. This restorative dental procedure becomes necessary when a dentist removes a portion of the tooth due to damage, decay, or the formation of cavities. Fillings are also employed to mend cracked, fractured, or excessively worn-down teeth caused by habits like tooth grinding or nail biting.

Exploring Types of Dental Filling Materials

Various materials make up dental fillings, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Gold Fillings: Known for their durability and potentially aesthetic appeal, gold fillings last 10 to 15 years. However, they come at a higher cost and may require multiple visits to the dentist.
2. Silver Fillings (Amalgam): Lasting a similar duration to gold fillings, silver fillings are less expensive. However, they may necessitate the removal of more tooth structure, leading to potential aesthetic concerns and an increased risk of fractures.
3. Tooth-Coloured Composite Fillings: These popular fillings offer color-matching to existing teeth, bonding for additional support, and are often used for tooth repair. However, they may last around five years and may require more time to place.
4. Ceramics or Porcelain Fillings: Resistant to staining and with a lifespan of over 15 years, these fillings can be comparable in cost to gold fillings.
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings: With fluoride-releasing properties, these fillings are suitable for areas below the gum line. However, they may be weaker and have a shorter lifespan of around five years.
6. Indirect Fillings: When there’s insufficient tooth structure for standard fillings, indirect fillings come into play. Inlays and onlays, created in a dental laboratory, offer lasting durability, with inlays lasting up to 30 years.
7. Direct Inlays and Onlays: Created in the dental office during a single visit, these fillings are a convenient option, made based on the remaining solid tooth structure and aesthetic considerations.
8. Temporary Fillings: Essential for emergency dental treatment, after a root canal, or for multi-visit fillings, temporary fillings provide interim protection but typically wear out within a month.

Repairing Lost or Broken Fillings at City Dental Group NYC

In situations where lost or broken fillings require urgent attention, City Dental Group NYC is here to address your needs promptly. Sensitivity and pain can be managed with over-the-counter dental anesthetics, and once you’re in for an appointment, we’ll determine the best course of action through X-rays and recommend suitable filling materials. Timely attention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure optimal oral health.