Choosing the Right Dental Filling for You

Composite Fillings Forest Hills, NY

A dental filling can help to fix the damage caused by tooth decay. The procedure is usually pain-free and takes about an hour. If you have to get a dental filling, you have lots of materials to choose from. Before your appointment, you should take the time to learn as much as possible about the different options. This will help you to make the right decision.

Dental filling materials

The dentist will consider many factors when choosing the right filling material for the patient. These include the extent of the repair, the cost, and where in the mouth it is needed. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks in terms of appearance, strength, durability, cost, and ease of application. These factors should also be taken into account when choosing a filling. Teeth can be filled with silver amalgam, porcelain, gold, composite resin fillings, or glass ionomer.

Composite fillings

These are a mix of acrylic resin and powdered glass. The color or shade of the fillings can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, which makes them hardly noticeable. Composite fillings are usually a good option for front teeth. But this filling material is not as durable as amalgam. They may not last as long under the pressure of chewing and especially if used for large cavities.

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam dental fillings are made from a mixture of metals. They usually contain around 50% mercury along with tin, silver, copper, or zinc. This type of filling is generally more affordable than other dental filling materials. It is also very strong, which is why it is usually used on stress-bearing surfaces. It is a good choice for large or deep cavity fillings.

Gold fillings

Gold fillings usually last for many years and are very strong. But these fillings are the most expensive. Moreover, gold fillings cannot be applied and then shaped directly into the tooth cavity. The fillings are often made in a laboratory based on an impression of the tooth. This means a patient has to spend more time in the dentist’s chair.

Porcelain or glass ionomer fillings

Porcelain fillings are made in a laboratory after the dentist takes an impression of the tooth. These fillings also tend to be pricey. But the good thing is that they look natural. Glass ionomer fillings are also tooth-colored but are not as strong as composites. These are made of acrylic and a specific type of glass that contains fluoride which can help prevent cavities. This material is commonly used for fillings below the gumline and for children’s teeth.

Caring for your teeth

Your dentist can help you pick the most ideal filling material that will meet your needs. To maintain dental fillings, you should follow good oral hygiene. This involves brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and using an antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day. You should also visit your dentist on a regular basis. To learn more about the various types of fillings, talk to your dentist.

Request an appointment here: https://metrosmiles.com or call Metro Smiles Dental at (718) 841-9591 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Forest Hills, NY.

Related Posts

What Your Dentist Wants You To Know About Dental Implant Aftercare

Investing in dental implants can be the healthiest thing that you can do for your dental health. Replacing missing teeth is necessary. Dental implants are the gold standard in dental replacements. Knowing how to care for your new implants can improve your oral health for a long time. Here are some pointers that you must…

Cosmetic Dentistry For Worn Teeth With Crowns

Cosmetic dentistry can treat worn-down teeth. Using dental crowns can enhance your smile and oral health. Many people choose to have crowns or caps for their worn-down teeth. Caps have a high level of durability and aesthetic quality. If you want to know how cosmetic dentistry uses crowns to restore worn teeth, here are the…

Basic Types Of Implants Offered By Implant Dentists

Patients looking to replace missing or failing teeth may benefit from dental implants, a long-lasting dental restoration that mimics the function and form of real teeth. Depending on the patient's oral health, implant dentists use two types of implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. In this blog, we will closely examine the different types of implants and…

Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular option for people missing one or more teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them an enticing choice for adults needing tooth replacement. Though this option offers many benefits that other teeth replacement options do not, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Let us…