People who have chipped their tooth or have holes in their tooth due to tooth decay often look for restorative dental options for their situation. Dental fillings are one option dentists in Fort Myers use to restore smiles and repair teeth to fix cracks or chips, or even after cavities.
Read on to learn more about the different types of tooth fillings and the factors to consider before opting for one.
When a dentist recommends a tooth filling
Your dentist in Fort Myers can recommend a tooth filling for the following reasons:
If your protective enamel coating gets eroded by certain foods and drinks or by medical conditions such as reflux or hiatus hernia, which can leave your tooth unprotected.
- If your tooth shows signs of decay. This is when there’s structural damage to your tooth due to plaque, which results in tiny holes in your tooth that can get bigger if left untreated.
- If you chip or break a tooth accidentally while eating, or even as part of an injury.
- If your teeth are worn out from brushing aggressively or bruxism (involuntary, repetitive grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth).
Types of filling materials available
Here are some common types of filling materials:
Composite resin fillings
Composite fillings are also called white fillings. They match the natural color of your teeth and are made from a plastic-glass mixture. Due to their tooth-colored nature, they are a great choice for filling dental issues around visible areas of the teeth. They are very durable since they bond directly to the tooth structure. Composite fillings offer excellent aesthetics and typically last 5 to 10 years. They cost more than amalgam fillings but blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
Composite resin fillings
Amalgam fillings are typically silver-colored and made from a combination of metals, including copper, silver, mercury, and tin. This filling option is a great choice for fillings in your back teeth, which do most of your chewing. Amalgam fillings can last for up to 15 years, as long as you keep up with good oral hygiene. The FDA considers amalgam safe for adults and children over 6. However, amalgam fillings are not a great option for pregnant women, as mercury can cause adverse risks to developing neurological systems in fetuses, or young children.
Ceramic fillings
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain and are another natural-looking option for patients who prefer fillings that mimic their teeth appearance. They can be created to mimic the translucency, texture, and color of your natural teeth and are stain-resistant, making them an excellent choice for front teeth and visible areas. Ceramic fillings can last up to 15 years with proper care and can be more expensive than composite and amalgam fillings. One of their cons, however, is that they are prone to chipping.
Glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are composed of acrylic and silica glass powder. When applied, they bond directly to the tooth surface without additional adhesives and are a great choice for cavities close to the gumline. These types of fillings are especially useful for pediatric dentistry as the process is less invasive, supports healthy enamel growth, and protects against further decay.
They are less durable than amalgam and many other tooth filling options and may only last up to 5 years. This is one reason they are often used for children, whose primary teeth are temporary. They can also be a good option for temporary fillings for people with sensitive teeth or be used for ‘non-biting’ surfaces, such as the side walls of teeth.
Factors that determine the right filling for you
Here are some factors that can affect which filling may be the best option:
Location of the filling
The front teeth are very visible, and ceramic or composite fillings are the preferred choice due to their tooth-like appearance and texture. In contrast, the back teeth options require a strong option, such as amalgam. Glass ionomer fillings are more suited for non-biting surfaces, as they are not the most robust filling type.
Aesthetic preferences
People who prioritize aesthetics often prefer ceramic or composites. Amalgam or glass ionomer might not be the best choice if you are looking for a filling type that’s natural-looking and is hard to detect.
Budget considerations
While budget shouldn’t be the only consideration, if you are budget-conscious, your filling option should take that into consideration. Amalgam fillings tend to be the least expensive option.
Health considerations
If you have allergies to some filling materials, are a nursing mom, are pregnant or looking to be pregnant soon, or are someone with a preexisting condition, such as impaired kidney function or neurological disease, your doctor will have to advise you on the best filling options for you. Amalgam, for example, won’t be a good choice for someone pregnant or with preexisting neurological diseases.
The bottom line
Choosing the best filling option for you depends on a couple of factors that are specific to you. It can help to discuss your health history, your budget, and your dental goals with a “dentist near me” to ensure you get the best advice and care you deserve.
This article was written for WHN by Viktor, a lead marketing strategist, covering different topics in various niches, overseeing the creation, launch, and management of marketing campaigns across multiple channels.
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