Having a damaged tooth or cavity often means you and the dentist will need to decide what type of filling to use. Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages and is made from a variety of different types of substances. The various options need to be considered carefully in order to receive a treatment that you can be happy with.



Silver Amalgam Fillings

This is one of the most common materials used to fix cavities and tooth damage because it can withstand a large amount of wear and tear and still last for a significant amount of time. It is not permanent, however. Its resilience to pressure and grinding combined with its dark color makes it a better choice for molar repairs. The dentist just applies the paste to the drilled hole and shapes it to give it a natural feel. The entire process can be completed in a single appointment, but it is reserved for back teeth because of its color. While it can leave the patient dealing with some tooth sensitivity and there is still a possibility of further decay, it is an inexpensive treatment. Some recent studies have also suggested that this material may release mercury into the body.

Composite Resin Fillings

This method works a little differently than other treatments. After the decayed portions have been removed from the tooth, the oral care professional will brush on special glue before coating the first layer of resin. Once the liquid plastic-like material has been applied, a special light is projected onto the tooth to cure the material. This process continues until there is enough mixture on the tooth. Then, it will be shaped and polished to match the rest of your teeth.

Composite resin material is often selected because it is cost effective and can be completed in a single sitting. It doesn't last for as long as traditional amalgam or gold material, but it appears natural. Unfortunately, it doesn't guarantee that decay won't occur underneath.

Glass Materials

Fillings made of glass ionomer are tooth colored and can be completed in one appointment. This material is more affordable than gold and may be combined with fluoride to help prevent the reappearance of tooth decay. This was commonly used for front teeth before other materials were available. Dentist professionals are using this material less frequently because it doesn't stand up well to pressure and it wears quickly. It is also more expensive than silver amalgam. Experts are currently testing this material to determine exactly how much pressure and wear it can withstand.

Porcelain Fillings

Even though porcelain is hard yet brittle when left on its own, it is often combined with metal to make a sturdy, long-lasting treatment that looks like the rest of your teeth. One of the biggest downfalls to this method, however, is that it is made is a lab. This means it requires at least two appointments and is more expensive than many other treatments.

These options are available to patients throughout the country, including those in Orange County. Dentist experts will be able to talk to you about each of these options and help you weigh the pros and cons of each one. He or she will help you decide which option will help to fix your damaged tooth and match your financial situation while still looking great.