If you have never had a cavity before, you are in rare company. Over 90 percent of all American adults have at least one filling, according to the American Dental Association. Now that you need a filling for one of your teeth, it is important to consider which type of dental filling is right for you. Here is a rundown of the types of dental fillings available when you have a cavity.
What Exactly Is a Cavity?
All cavities, or holes in your teeth, are caused by acids in mouth bacteria. These bacterial acids can eat away at your tooth enamel over time and make a hole. If the hole is shallow and only in your tooth enamel, it is called a dental caries. However, once the hole has progressed into the second layer of your tooth, called the dentin, it becomes a cavity. Cavities must be filled by our dentist as soon as possible so that the tooth infection does not progress into your tooth pulp and cause a serious infection.
Types of Dental Fillings
Now that you know you have a cavity, you should also know that there are different types of filling available. Here are the most common types of fillings dentists use.
Silver Amalgam
For decades, silver amalgam fillings were the standard filling nearly all dentists used. These filling mixtures used to contain silver, mercury, tin, copper, and zinc. Silver amalgam fillings are strong and inexpensive. However, many patients do not like fillings that can be clearly seen when you smile. Also, silver amalgam fillings can become brittle with age.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are quite common today. They are made of a mixture of glass particles and plastic resin, and they are colored the same as your teeth, so they are very difficult to see. Composite fillings are inexpensive, but they are not as shiny as other fillings.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made of porcelain, and they are perfect for tooth surfaces that are highly visible, such as your front teeth. However, they can be expensive, and some patients find them abrasive.
Not sure which filling is perfect for your tooth? We can help. Contact us today to make an appointment.
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If you have never had a cavity before, you are in rare company. Over 90 percent of all American adults have at least one filling, according to the American Dental Association. Now that you need a filling for one of your teeth, it is important to consider which type of dental filling is right for you. Here is a rundown of the types of dental fillings available when you have a cavity.