Fillings

 

1. White Dental Fillings ( Composite Fillings)

• Material: These fillings are made from a resin material that is composed of a mixture of acrylic (plastic) and fine glass particles. The material is typically tooth-colored, which makes them a popular choice for fillings in visible areas.

• Appearance: They blend well with natural tooth color, so they are less noticeable than other types of fillings, making them ideal for fillings in the front teeth or areas that are visible when talking or smiling.

• Advantages:

  • Aesthetic appeal: Their natural look is the main advantage, especially for visible teeth.

  • Less tooth removal: Composite fillings require less drilling and removal of healthy tooth structure compared to other materials.

  • Bonding: Composite fillings can bond directly to the tooth, adding strength to the tooth.

• Disadvantages:

  • Durability: While durable, they are not as long-lasting or wear-resistant as gold or amalgam fillings, especially for back teeth that experience heavy chewing forces.

  • Staining: Over time, white fillings may stain or discolor, especially with frequent consumption of coffee, tea, or tobacco.

  • Longer placement time: They require more time to apply, as they are placed in layers and then cured with a special light.

• Longevity: Typically lasts 5-10 years, but may wear down sooner depending on the size and location of the filling.

2. Gold Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)

• Material: Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy, typically a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals. This material has been used for dental restorations for many years due to its strength and durability.

• Appearance: Gold fillings are not tooth-colored and are more noticeable than composite fillings, especially for people with highly visible smiles. However, they are considered the best choice for durability and function, particularly for large fillings in the back teeth.

• Advantages:

  • Durability: Gold is incredibly durable and can withstand the pressure of chewing. It is one of the longest-lasting types of dental fillings, often lasting 15-20 years or more.

  • Biocompatibility: Gold is well-tolerated by the body and rarely causes allergic reactions.

  • Wear-resistant: Gold fillings wear at a similar rate to natural tooth enamel, which helps maintain the integrity of the bite.

• Disadvantages:

  • Aesthetic concerns: The bright gold color can be noticeable, especially in the front of the mouth.

  • Cost: Gold fillings tend to be more expensive than other types due to the material and the more complex procedure required to create them.

  • Requires multiple visits: The process involves taking impressions, creating the filling in a dental lab, and then placing it in a subsequent visit.

3. Silver/Amalgam Fillings

• Material: Silver fillings, also known as dental amalgam, are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. The primary component is mercury, which gives it its silver color.

• Appearance: The silver color makes these fillings highly noticeable, especially in the front teeth. They are typically used for fillings in the back teeth, where the filling is less visible.

• Advantages:

  • Durability: Amalgam fillings are very strong and durable, and they can last 10-15 years or more, making them ideal for areas with heavy chewing pressure.

  • Cost: Amalgam fillings are generally the least expensive option, both in terms of materials and placement.

  • Quick placement: The material hardens quickly, so the filling can be placed in a single visit.

• Disadvantages:

  • Aesthetic concerns: The silver color can be unattractive and noticeable, especially for people concerned with the appearance of their smile.

  • Mercury content: Although the mercury in amalgam fillings is considered stable and safe by the American Dental Association (ADA), some patients may be concerned about potential health risks, despite extensive studies showing no significant danger from amalgam fillings.

  • Expansion and contraction: Amalgam fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to cracks in the tooth or filling over time.

• Longevity: Amalgam fillings typically last 10-15 years, but can sometimes wear down faster if placed in areas with heavy bite forces.

Summary of Differences:

CharacteristicWhite Fillings (Composite)Gold FillingsSilver/Amalgam Fillings

MaterialResin-based compositeGold alloyMetal alloy (includes mercury)

AppearanceTooth-colored, blends wellGold, noticeableSilver/gray, noticeable

DurabilityModerate (5-10 years)Very high (15-20+ years)High (10-15 years)

CostModerate to highHighLow to moderate

Placement TimeLonger, multi-step processLonger, lab work requiredQuick, one visit

Wear ResistanceModerate, can wear faster in large fillingsVery high, wears similarly to enamelHigh, but may expand and contract over time

Ideal UseFront teeth, visible areasBack teeth, large fillingsBack teeth, large cavities

Choosing the Right Filling:

• Aesthetic preference: If you're looking for something natural-looking, white composite fillings are the best choice for visible teeth.

• Durability and longevity: If you're after something that will last for many years, particularly in back teeth, gold or amalgam might be the way to go.

• Cost: Amalgam is the most affordable, while gold can be significantly more expensive.

The choice between these options largely depends on the location of the cavity, your budget, and whether you prioritize aesthetics over longevity or vice versa. It's always a good idea to discuss the pros and cons of each option with your dentist to determine the best fit for your dental health needs.