When you have a cavity, that cavity is going to need to be removed. Your dentist is going to numb your tooth and then remove the decay in your tooth. After they remove the decay from your tooth, they have to fill in the area where they removed the decay. When it comes to filling in the space in your mouth, you have a few different choices regarding the type of filler that is used to fill in that space. There are numerous types of fillings that can be used; here are three of the options you have to choose from.
#1 Silver Fillings
When it comes to fillings for cavities, one of the more common materials that has actually been used for over a century, is silver. Silver filling usually contains a variety of other materials, such as zinc, mercury, tin, and copper.
For a while, there was concerns about the small amount of mercury contained in silver fillings. There was some panic that the mercury was harmful; however, the American Dental association as well as other prominent health organizations have cleared up the confusion and verified that the mercury in silver is not harmful for your health, so if you want to go with an affordable and long-lasting silver filling, go for it.
#2 Composite Fillings
Composite fillings have become really popular because they can be matched to the color of your other teeth, blending in the filling. With a composite filling, it can be hard to tell the difference between your composite filling and your other teeth.
Composite filling is made out of acrylic resin as well as powered glass. It is not as durable as metal filling options; however, it does provide a high degree of support as it bonds with your tooth. You may need to get the filling replaced a little sooner than a metal filling, but in the meantime, it will not be obvious that you have a filling.
#3 Porcelain Fillings
Another popular filling option is porcelain. Porcelain is also popular because it looks natural, just like a composite filling. Porcelain may not last as long as a metal filling but is still considered a strong and long-lasting filling material. One of the unique things about a porcelain filling is that it is created in a laboratory, so first you have to be fitted for the filling, and then you have to come back to have the fitting placed on your tooth. These extra steps ensure that the fitting fits your tooth perfectly.
Don't just go with your dentist's default or preferred filling material; talk to them about your options and what is best for your preferences and finances.
Share21 April 2019
After dealing with a few root canals, I realized that it was time to take my dental hygiene a more seriously. I talked with my dentist about what I could do differently, and he was full of great suggestions that would help. He walked me through different ways to brush, floss, and take care of tartar buildup, and it was really amazing to see the difference that it made. I also started taking a fluoride supplement to strengthen my enamel. When I made it to my next appointment, my dentist was blown away with the improvement. This blog is all about improving your dental appointments by keeping your teeth healthier.
