With the different types of fillings available from today’s dentists, you have some choices for dealing with a cavity. Read here for help with your decision.
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in the world. According to the NIH, more than 90% of adults will have at least one cavity in their permanent teeth.
Left untreated, it can cause many problems from ongoing pain to difficulty chewing. In some cases, it can even trigger life-threatening complications.
That’s why it’s so important to go to the dentist if you suspect that you have a cavity. The earlier you treat it, the better.
What are the different types of fillings that you can get? Want to know? Then make sure to read the rest of the page!
What’s a Dental Filling?
Dental fillings are artificial substances that are used to treat decayed, damaged, or broken teeth. Assuming that you have a cavity, the dentist will first remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
The goal is to replace it with the filling so that bacteria won’t be able to re-enter the vulnerable area.
4 Different Types of Fillings That You Can Get
As it turns out, there’s more than one type of tooth filling that you can get. Here are some of your options.
1. Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are typically made from acrylic resin and powdered glass. One of the great things about them is that they can be matched to the color of your teeth, which makes them less visible.
Compared to other materials, however, they’re not as durable. Generally speaking, they’ll last anywhere from five to ten years.
2. Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for more than 150 years. Silver in appearance, they’re made up of various metals including mercury, tin, copper, silver, and zinc.
Price-wise, they’re the most affordable. They aren’t without drawbacks, however. For one thing, they can cause teeth discoloration. In some cases, they can also weaken the teeth.
3. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are highly durablethat is, they can easily last more than two decades. With that said, they’re not as popular as they used to be. Nowadays, many people prefer those that match the color of their teeth.
Keep in mind that they’re also one of the more expensive options. Depending on the size of the filling, it can easily cost you upward of a few grand!
4. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a blend of glass and acrylic. One thing that sets them apart from other fillings is that they release fluoride, which helps to protect the teeth.
At the same time, however, the material is also a lot weaker. Chances are, you’ll have to get it replaced within five years.
Getting a Cavity Filled
As you can see, there are different types of fillings that you can choose from, each of which has its pros and cons. Remember, you can always ask your dentist if you have any questions.
For more posts like this, check out the rest of our health section!
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