Dental fillings are used to fill up cavities in the teeth. Fillings are also useful to repair a cracked or a broken tooth. It is also utilized to fill up gaps between teeth which have worn out as a result of nail biting or tooth grinding. Dental practitioners endorse it as a remedy to dental problems and to give a wider range of options to clients and due to its many uses, several types of dental fillings were introduced. These variants are readily available in clinics for dental clients. However, as each choice has its own pros and cons, it pays to know more about each type so you can separate one from the other.

Cast gold fillings


Cast gold fillings are durable. They can last up to 10 years or even longer. A lot of dental patients choose this over other types of fillings because they don’t corrode despite intense chewing. Most consider this because it looks classier when compared to silver amalgam fillings. With its elegant and costly impact though, a greater cost will be shouldered by the client. Approximately, it is ten times more than the cost of silver amalgam fillings. It will also require more visits which would mean another bulk in consultation fees.

Beautiful as it may seem to some individuals, it has a drawback in the sense that it can cause a reaction when placed beside a silver tooth filling. This is due to the reaction between two different types of metals that interact with the composition of saliva. As an effect, sharp pain is produced which is similar to a mild electric current exposure. This reaction is known as galvanic shock. Because of this effect and its glittery appearance, some dental patients prefer more convenient materials that follow the natural color of their teeth.

Silver fillings

These fillings are also called Amalgams. These are also durable and like gold fillings, they can last for 10 to 15 years because they can withstand chewing pressure though it is less expensive when compared to composite fillings. Some dental practitioners do recommend this for certain reasons.

Take note though that this filling can cause allergic reactions due to its mercury component. This can also present a discoloration that can appear as a grayish hue to the surrounding tooth structure. The removal of healthier tooth parts also needs to be scraped off to make enough space for an amalgam filling. Additionally, when exposed to hot and cold drinks, amalgams have the tendency to produce a wide degree of expansion and contraction which, eventually will result to a higher chance to have fractures and cracks. Regardless of its cheaper price, many are not comfortable with it because they don’t match the teeth’s natural color.

Tooth colored composites

This is a common choice because it closely matches the color of the teeth. These are useful in mending cavities in the front teeth. Also, tooth composites are a popular choice because they can closely match the color of the teeth. They can bond well with the tooth and for this, they are more durable when compared to other types. It is also highly recommended to fill up tooth cracks. Minimal tooth structure is also removed during preparation.

As in any other options, it also has its disadvantages. Tooth colored composites are not as durable as the other. In fact, they can last up to five years only. It is more meticulously done and this requires the client to be on a dental chair for a longer time. Along with this, more frequent visits are required especially if filings are for dental inlays or onlays. They cannot withstand extreme pressure and are prone to chipping. Concerning its price, it is more costly compared to amalgam.

Ceramic dental fillings

Ceramic fillings restore the natural appearance of the tooth making it difficult to be noticed. These are used to fill a tooth that undergoes more stress or it can also be used as an alternative to a crown. It is advantageous because it generally lasts longer than other fillings. Less tooth drilling is also required. What makes it a popular choice is that it does not weaken other parts of the tooth as much as other fillings do and it is chosen for its aesthetic appearance. However, it also it has its disadvantage, that is it has an inclination to get brittle and this makes it prone to breakage. It is also costly.

Glass ionomers

This is useful for filling decay, dental erosion and as a filling for baby teeth. It is recommended for mending a tooth that is not used for extensive chewing. It is almost similar to the color of a tooth making it less obvious. It is beneficial because it releases fluoride to the tooth which provides additional protection against decay. Some do not recommend this despite its attributes because glass ionomers are not long lasting.

You have to know that dental fillings should be chosen depending on a list of factors too. If you are unsure about making the right choice, it will be best to consult a trusted family dentist in Franklin.