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What Are The Benefits of Different Types of Dental Fillings?

When you have cavities or tooth decay, dental fillings are essential for restoring the natural appearance and function of your teeth while preventing further damage. At Peace of Mind Dental Studio, we offer various types of tooth fillings tailored to address different dental issues.

Each filling type comes with its own set of benefits.

If you have cavities and your dentist has suggested dental filling but are unsure which one suits you, you have come to the right place.

In this blog, you will learn about the different dental filling types and their pros and cons to make an informed decision.

For consultation, contact us at Peace of Mind Dental Studio.

Amalgam Fillings

You can say that they are the best dental filling types. Amalgams are alloys made of silver, mercury, tin, and copper and have been used in dentistry for centuries. People who like ornamental teeth can opt for these fillings, as they are distinct.

Pros

  • They cost approx. $150 per tooth, depending on the size and cavity location. They are considered cost-effective when compared to other dental filling options.
  • They are simple to install, and the treatment takes only one visit.
  • They have a long lifespan of approx 10-15 years, which makes them a popular choice.
  • They are suitable for molar cavities and decay, where they are hidden from sight.

Cons

  • What makes them less popular among the patients is that they are visible while smiling or eating. If you’re looking for a hidden solution for your cavities, these are not the ones for you.

Composite Filling

For visible front teeth, you need composite resin filling, which restores the natural appearance of the tooth. It is made up of composite resin bonded directly to your tooth. These are the most popular dental filling types.

Pros

  • The first reason is that if you choose composite filling, you can have it done in a single visit to the dentist.
  • These are applied directly to the tooth and shaped to mimic your natural tooth. They are flawless in appearance and best for front teeth. There is no gap between the teeth and filling, and thus, there is no risk of further decay.
  • This filling type is multipurpose as composite resin is used to fix chipped, cracked, and broken teeth.
  • They last 5-10 years, less than the lifespan of amalgam fillings.

Cons

  • They cost about $250 per tooth, which is more expensive than amalgam fillings and unsuitable if you want permanent tooth filling in Chandler.
  • Their lifespan is also less compared to other filling types. However, they are easy to repair.

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings are another great filling type that offers a natural appearance. They are made of porcelain, which is stain-resistant and durable. If you don’t find composite resin fillings that are long-lasting, we advise you to choose ceramic fillings.

Pros

  • They are strong and durable, lasting for up to 15 years.
  • They have an advantage over amalgam and composite fillings as they last long and offer a natural aesthetic appearance, making them fit for front teeth as well.
  • They offer stain resistance, which is great for people who consume tea or coffee, as these fillings don’t stain.
  • These are fit for molars that have lost significant chewing surfaces due to cavities.

Cons

  • They are more expensive than amalgam and composite fillings, costing approx. $300 per tooth, but they are worth it.
  • They require two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, we clean the decayed tooth, take an impression of it, and place a temporary filling on it. During the second visit, the matching filling, which replicates the color and size of the lost tooth, is placed upon it and sealed. So, if you are looking for a swift solution, ceramic filling isn’t right.

Glass Ionomer Filling

This filling is made of glass and acrylic and is quite different from other dental fillings. They are typically used for fillings below the gum line or in areas of minimal chewing pressure.

Pros

  • These fillings are suitable for children as they are easier to lace and require minimum invasion.
  • These fillings release fluoride, which strengthens teeth and protects them from further decay.
  • These are very cost-effective, starting from $75 per tooth. However, the final price depends on your location and the complexity of the decay.

Cons

  • They wear down more quickly and are not known for their durability.

Final Words

Now that you know about the different dental filling types, you know what to choose for your dental situation. Remember, the success of your dental filling depends on which dentist you choose, as their expertise plays a vital role in your dental treatment.

Thus, book an appointment today with Peace of Mind Dental Studio. We are the answer to “Best cosmetic dentist near me” and offer expert dental services in Chandler. Our secret to becoming the best dentist in the area is that we care about our patients and listen to their needs, ensure their comfort, and then offer what they need.

So, contact us today for more information on dental fillings or any dental issues.

Written by Dr. Silverman

Dr. Silverman is the co-founder of Peace of Mind Dental, a Chandler Arizona, general dentistry practice.

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