There are lots of misconceptions surrounding dental fillings, but let us tell you the truth. Dental fillings San Ramon are one of the best options to repair or restore teeth, most typically to address cavities caused by decay, cracked or fractured teeth, and wear caused by tooth grinding or nail-biting. They can be constructed of gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (including mercury, silver, tin, zinc, and copper), or tooth-colored composite resin fillings. Now, the thing is that the type of filling material you use is determined by criteria such as the level of decay, cost, insurance coverage, and your dentist’s recommendation.

Types of fillings and advantages:

There are several advantages to getting dental fillings. While gold fillings are visually beautiful and can last 10 to 15 years, silver amalgam fillings last longer and are less expensive. Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in with existing teeth, add support, and require less tooth loss. Ceramic/porcelain fillings have a lifespan of more than 15 years and are stain resistant. Fluoride-releasing glass ionomer fillings are often used below the gum line to prevent additional deterioration.

What are the disadvantages?

While the pros are of course there, gold fillings are more expensive and may necessitate repeated visits to the dentist. Silver amalgam fillings may require more tooth removal, have a gray tint, and increase the risk of tooth cracks and fractures. Tooth-colored composite fillings last less (about five years), chip more easily, and are more expensive than amalgams. Ceramics can be as costly as gold. Glass ionomer fillings are weaker, wear faster, and have a shorter lifespan (five years or less), but they are less expensive than composite fillings.

Inlays and outlays:

Indirect fillings are similar to tooth-colored fillings, except they are created in a dental lab and require two visits for implantation. Inlays (inside cusps) and onlays (covering one or more cusps) are the two varieties. Inlays and onlays outlast normal fillings by up to 30 years and can be constructed of composite resin, porcelain, or gold. 

Final thoughts:

Maintain proper oral hygiene by seeing your dentist for regular cleanings, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily to care for your teeth with fillings. Contact your dentist if you have excessive sensitivity, sharp edges, cracks, or missing filling parts. X-rays may be taken to evaluate any potential filling difficulties, such as cracks or leaks, that could lead to degradation.