When you develop a cavity, you need to have it filled by your favorite Manahawkin dentist in order to prevent further pain or damage to the tooth. There are a few different types of fillings that can be used today and each has its own list of pros and cons. What your cavity gets filled with is a discussion for you to have with your dentist. It may be a factor of price, insurance coverage, or even aesthetic reasons. If despite your best efforts of practicing good dental hygiene you develop a cavity, learn about the different options to have it filled so that you can discuss the best way to proceed with your dentist.
Amalgam – Amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of a few different metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It has been used in dentistry to fill cavities for over 100 years. They are very common because they are extremely long-lasting, very strong, and relatively inexpensive. There is concern with the fact that one of the metals included in the mix is mercury which can be toxic to humans in significant quantities. Small amounts of mercury can be release in the form of vapor, so there is the potential for that to be inhaled and absorbed by the lungs. Based on years and years of studies, the FDA says that amalgam fillings are safe for anyone over the age of 6.
Gold – Similar to amalgam fillings, gold fillings are extremely strong and enduring. They share a lot of the positive aspects with amalgam fillings, but the biggest drawback of gold fillings is price. Also, many dentists won’t even offer this as an option. Gold fillings are pretty much only selected by people for aesthetic reasons by those who prefer gold to silver.
Composite – Composite fillings are popular for many because they are the color of teeth so are much less noticeable than fillings made of metals. However, they have been found to be much less durable so may need to be replaced more often than fillings like amalgam. Composite fillings are more expensive than other options so may not be covered by insurance.
Ceramic – These fillings are made of porcelain and are tooth colored like composite fillings. Unlike composite fillings, ceramic ones are strong and resilient and they resist staining and abrasion. One drawback of ceramic fillings is that in order for them to be strong, they also need to be large. This requires much more of your tooth to be drilled out to make room for the filling.
Glass lonomer – These fillings are a blend of glass and acrylic. They typically last less than 5 years because they are very weak, but are a good choice for children whose teeth are still going through changes. An additional benefit for their use is that they release fluoride so while they are protecting the tooth from the existing cavity, they are also helping to prevent further decay.
With good dental hygiene and regular check-ups at your trusted Manahawkin dentist, hopefully you will never have to have a discussion about fillings. However, if you do, at least now you can be armed with some information about your options and can have an educated discussion with your dentist.