Tooth fillings are a common restorative dental treatment for teeth that have been damaged by decay. They restore cavities, repair cracks and stop bacteria from entering the tooth to regain full tooth functionality and ensure that the problem doesn’t become a bigger and more expensive one in the future.
Tooth fillings often send shivers down patient’s spines as dental anxiety is quite common. But you’ll be glad to know that technological advancements have improved not only the materials used for fillings, but also the method. Pain management and sedation options are always available to patients who require fillings.
There are a range of dental fillings available, and your dentist will discuss with you which tooth filling is best for you.
Composite Resin Tooth Fillings
Composite Resin fillings, also known as white fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic and glass compounds.
Pros
- Natural-looking and aesthetically-pleasing – they’re made to mimic the natural colour of your teeth!
- An affordable option
- Ideal for placement in front teeth and small fillings
- Less treatment time in chair than porcelain or ceramic fillings
- Relatively versatile
Cons
- Shorter lifespan than porcelain and ceramic fillings
- Not well suited for large or deep fillings
Glass Ionomer Tooth Fillings
Made from a combination of acrylic acids and fine glass, Glass Ionomer fillings form a chemical link with the tooth.
Pros
- Little to no drilling or preparation required
- Able to release chemical compounds such as fluoride, which helps prevent future cavities
- Suitable for babies and children
- Great for gum line fillings and moist areas in the mouth
Cons
- Relatively weak compared to other filling materials – so they are not suitable for biting surfaces
- Don’t generally match the translucency of natural teeth as well as porcelain, ceramics or composites
Amalgam Tooth Fillings
Amalgam fillings are the most traditional types of fillings, either silver or gold in colour.
Pros
- Durable and useful in areas of the mouth where biting pressure is higher, and the fillings are not very visible (such as the molars)
Cons
- Decreased popularity now that natural-looking fillings have advanced
- Not as visually pleasing as other options
With a range of options available for dental fillings, it’s best to talk to your dentist about which material and method is most suitable for your dental issue. For more advice and quality dental treatment, visit our dedicated team at Everton Park Dental.To book an appointment, call us on (07) 3355 7936 or book online.
Everton Park Dental is a preferred provider for major health funds – including HCF, TUH and CBHS. Be sure to check if your health fund is expiring at the end of this financial year and use it before you lose it!
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