How Fillings Have Changed

Whitaker Family Dentistry provides patients with dental fillings. It is important to know how fillings have changed over the years so that you can decide what is best for your teeth.

Mercury Fillings

Mercury used to be the standard way of filling in areas in teeth. A mold that is made of amalgam is used and contains mainly silver, which is why they are known as silver fillings. They also contain mercury, which has the potential to lead to health problems as it is toxic, and a small bit leaks out of the filling over the years.

Tooth-Colored Composite

If you don’t want silver fillings, composite resin can be used. These fillings do not require as much of the tooth to be removed, and the resin can be made to match the color of your teeth. They become bonded to the enamel over time, making them very secure inside the tooth. Composite fillings are also very smooth, so plaque has a more difficult time accumulating on the enamel.

Other Filling Materials

There are many other options when it comes to the type of filling your dentist may recommend. Fillings can be made of different metals, including gold. Fillings made of these metals tend to be very strong and can last for a very long time before they need to be replaced by your dental professional at Whitaker Family Dentistry.

Ceramic and porcelain fillings may also be used, as they look much like teeth and resist stains. One other material that your dentist may apply is glass ionomer, which is relatively new in the dental office. It is made of acrylic and silicas, releasing fluoride over time. However, they last about half as long as other fillings.

Indirect Fillings

Indirect fillings require two visits and are used to treat damage that previously did not qualify for fillings. The decayed matter will be removed, and then the filling is cemented into the tooth. It can save a tooth from needing a crown applied to it.

Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry can take away some of the pain and drilling of dental visits, which is why many patients avoid the dentist. They are very safe and highly effective, with no drilling sounds and very little need for anesthetic.