how to choose dental fill material fit you?

how to choose dental fill material fit you?


To treat a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed piece of the tooth and then "fill" the area. Fillings are also used to repair teeth that are fractured or shattered, as well as teeth that have been worn down by excessive wear (such as from nail-biting or tooth grinding)


Therefore, when you require dental restoration, you must first select the dental fill material, but there are different types of tooth filling materials: So how do you choose the ideal material for your needs? This blog provides a summary of their distinguishing characteristics to assist with selection.


Types of Dental Filling Materials

There are several types of dental filling materials:

1. Composite fillings: They are the most common type of dental restoration. Plastic and resin materials are used to make composite fillings. It is put within the tooth while it is still soft and then cured with a strong light.


2. Silver amalgam fillings: This is a common dental restoration. Silver amalgam fillings contain other minerals, including tin, zinc, copper, and mercury, in addition to silver.


3. Ceramic fillings: They are made from porcelain, which makes them both durable and aesthetically pleasing.


4. Glass ionomer fillings: They are composed of acrylic and a particular type of glass.


Advantages and Disadvantages

{Composite fillings}

Pro: 1. Aesthetically, composite fillings can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth. They are the most often used dental filling material.

2. Composites may also be a viable option for persons who are frightened of the dental procedure because they can be glued in place, requiring minimal drilling.

Cons: 1. Depending on the location, the filling may chip off, it may cost up to twice as much as amalgams, and it may take longer to put and/or require multiple appointments.

2. Composite fillings can get discolored or stained over time, just like natural teeth.


{Silver amalgam fillings}

Pros: 1. It is durable, long-lasting, and less expensive than alternative solutions.

2. user-friendly due to its malleability.

Cons: 1. It May require more teeth to be removed to create a space large enough to hold a filling; creating a grayish hue in the surrounding tooth structure.

2. may have a higher risk of tooth cracks and fractures due to a greater degree of expansion and contraction, and allergic potential in some individuals.

3. Because amalgam is silver-colored, others may be able to see it when you smile. Additionally, you may experience temporary sensitivity to heat or cold after receiving a filling.


{Ceramic fillings}

Pros: 1. The substance is more resistant to stains than composite resin.

2. The color closely resembles your teeth. These materials are extremely resilient and durable.

3. They are made from porcelain, which makes them both resilient and aesthetically pleasing.

4. They are tooth-colored and more resistant to discoloration and abrasion than composite resin.

Cons: 1. because it is more brittle, it must be utilized in large voids to prevent breakage.

2. Porcelain restoration requires multiple visits to the dentist, and it can be more expensive than other solutions.


{Glass ionomer fillings}

Pros: They can be tinted to match the color of your natural teeth. They can also be configured to release small amounts of fluoride, which prevents tooth decay.

Cons:1. It is weaker than composite resin, more susceptible to wear and fracture, has a lifespan of five years or less, and costs the same as composite fillings.

2. These fillings are susceptible to cracking and wear, so they are not a viable option for chewing surfaces.

3. Regular glass ionomer lacks the natural appearance of composite resin.


Application and their durability


Composite fillings are frequently utilized for repairs other than a cavity filling, requiring less tooth removal than amalgams.

Your dentist may pick a composite filling if your cavity is small to moderate in size or if your tooth receives a great deal of biting force.

Durability: Less than the ten to fifteen years of comparable materials


Silver amalgam fillings are used for crowns, fixed bridges, and partial dentures.

Your dentist may suggest amalgam if your cavity is in a back molar because it stands up well to chewing.

Some people may be concerned about the safety of mercury in an amalgam; however, the American Dental Association believes this material is safe.

Durability: Lasts at least ten to fifteen years


Ceramic fillings are the material of choice for veneers because they can be shaped into thin shells that fit over the surface of your teeth.

Durability: More than fifteen years


Glass ionomer fillings are typically used for children whose teeth are still developing

Your dentist may recommend using it for a cavity along the gum line or to fill in between teeth.

Durability: Lasting less than five years.