Table of Contents:
What Is a Dental Filling?
Dental fillings are important for two main reasons: they help to restore the strength of a tooth and they protect the tooth from further decay. There are several types of filling materials that can be used. When a tooth is damaged by decay or gum disease, the surrounding enamel can become weak.
When a cavity forms in a tooth, it can weaken the structure of the tooth and cause it to break or crack. This can result in significant discomfort and may necessitate more advanced treatment like a root canal. To address this issue, dentists may use various types of filling materials, such as amalgam or composite resin, to reinforce the tooth’s strength.
They help to prevent further decay by sealing off the cavity from food particles and bacteria, and thus play an essential role in maintaining oral health. There are different types of filling materials that can be used. Dental fillings fill in the spaces where bacteria can grow and help to prevent tooth decay.
They also help to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay. Fillings are made of different materials, such as gold, silver, or composite resin.
Types of Dental Fillings
Many types of dental fillings can be used, depending on your requirements and budget. The five leading options used today include:
1. Amalgam
This type of filling is made from a mixture of metals, including:
- Mercury
- Silver
- Tin
- Copper
They have been used for over 150 years and are considered safe and durable. This type of filling is also less expensive than other types of fillings. While there is some concern about the mercury content in amalgam fillings, the amount is low and not considered harmful.
In addition, the advantages of amalgam fillings outweigh any potential risks. They are strong and can withstand the force of chewing. They are also easy to place and can be used on large cavities.
As a result, amalgam fillings remain a popular choice for treating dental decay.
2. Composite Fillings
These types of fillings are made of a mixture of glass or quartz particles and plastic resins, and they can be matched to the colour of your teeth. This makes them much less noticeable than silver fillings. In addition, composite fillings bond directly to your tooth, which helps to support the tooth and prevent further decay.
Composite fillings are also less likely to irritate the gum tissue around the tooth. If you are considering dental fillings, be sure to ask your dentist about the benefits of composite fillings.
3. Ceramic Fillings
When most people think of dental fillings, they think of silver amalgam. However, there is another type of filling that is becoming increasingly popular ceramic fillings also known as porcelain fillings. Ceramic fillings are made from a compound that contains both silicon and oxygen, and they are solid and durable.
In addition, ceramic fillings are much less visible than silver amalgam, making them a good choice for people concerned about their teeth’ appearance and shape. While porcelain fillings are more expensive than silver amalgam, many patients feel that the benefits outweigh the cost.
4. Glass Ionomer Filling
A glass ionomer filling is a type of dental restoration that has several advantages over traditional materials such as amalgam. For one thing, it bonds to tooth structure more securely, which helps to prevent recurrent cavities. In addition, it releases fluoride, which can help to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of future cavities.
Glass ionomer fillings are also less likely to cause sensitivity and can be matched more closely to the colour of natural teeth. As a result, they are an attractive choice for patients who are looking for a durable and esthetically pleasing way to restore their smile.
5. Cast Gold Fillings
For generations, gold fillings have been used to restore the function and appearance of teeth. Today, they remain an excellent option for many patients. Gold fillings are durable and long-lasting, and they can be used on both front and back teeth.
In addition, they are less likely to cause sensitivity than other types of fillings. Gold fillings also provide good support for the tooth, and they can be removed and replaced if necessary. For these reasons, gold fillings continue to be a popular choice for patients who need dental restoration.
Signs You Need a Tooth Filling
However, the cost of dental fillings can vary widely depending on the material used and the dentist performing the procedure. Bali Dental Voyage offers quality dental fillings in Bali at a fraction of the price of our dental holiday packages to Bali.
Our experienced dentists use only the highest quality materials, and our prices are much lower than what you would pay at home. So if you have a question, or you’re looking for an affordable way to get quality dental care, contact Bali Dental Voyage today for more information and advice regarding fillings material that suits you.
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