What Are the Different Types of Dental Fillings and How Are They Used?

Have a cavity or a chipped tooth? A dental filling can fix that for you comfortably and quickly. They have proven to be an enticing option for Sydney residents to repair tooth damage, restore their strength and prevent further decay. 

But did you know there’s more than one type of dental filling option available today? From strong amalgam fillings to natural-looking composite resins and even ones with precious metals like gold, the choice ultimately depends on durability, aesthetics and affordability.

To finalise an option that meets your expectations, read ahead as we explain everything about them. Our aim at Rouse Hill Smiles? To help you make informed choices and give you a perfect smile!

The Need for Dental Filling And When Should You Get One?

The need for dental filling arises differently for different individuals. Dental fillings are necessary when tooth decay, fractures or wear compromises the integrity of a tooth. Ignoring these issues can lead to further deterioration, infections or even tooth loss.

They can be done to improve the aesthetics of your original teeth structure as well. Some reasons to make you consider tooth filling include:

• Cavities: Tooth decay caused by bacterial activity leads to cavities, which must be filled to prevent further damage.
• Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Minor fractures from accidents or biting hard objects can be repaired with fillings to restore strength.
• Tooth Wear: Enamel erosion due to acid exposure, grinding or improper brushing can be reinforced with tooth filling.
• Replacement of Old Fillings: Worn-out or damaged tooth fillings should be replaced to maintain oral health and prevent bacterial infiltration.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, persistent pain, visible damage or dark spots on your teeth, early intervention from an expert prevents more extensive and costly dental procedures. But before you visit, brief information about each type can be of great help.

Types of Dental Filling Materials

1. Amalgam Fillings

Composition: It is a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper and mercury.

Advantages: Highly durable and resistant to wear, making them ideal for molars. They last 10-15 years and are the most cost-effective tooth-filling option.

Best used for: Posterior teeth where chewing forces are the greatest.

Considerations: The silver-grey appearance makes them visible, which is why they are less commonly used today. Some individuals also raise concerns about the mercury content.

2. Composite Resin Fillings

Composition: It has a mixture of tooth-coloured plastic and fine glass.

Advantages: It can be matched to your existing tooth colour, giving it a natural appearance. Bonds directly to the existing tooth structure and requires minimal drilling.

Best used for: Since this dental filling provides a natural appearance, they are highly suitable for front and visible teeth and small to mid-sized cavities.

Considerations: Less durable than amalgam and prone to wear over time, especially in high-pressure chewing areas. They also may discolour over time with certain foods.

3. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain)

Composition: It contains high-grade Porcelain material.

Advantages: Aesthetic appearance with stain-resistant properties. This tooth filling is highly durable, lasting over 15 years when properly maintained.

Best used for: Larger restorations, particularly in visible areas.

Considerations: More expensive than composite or amalgam as they are custom-fitted and produced in dental laboratories. They might also wear opposing teeth over a period of time.

4. Glass Ionomer Fillings

Composition: It has acrylic acids and fine glass powders which release fluoride to strengthen enamel.

Advantages: It releases fluoride to help protect teeth and bonds chemically to the tooth structure.

Best used for: Below the gum line and at small areas with less chewing pressure (Non-load-bearing areas). Also commonly used for children’s teeth.

Considerations: Less durable than other dental filling like composite or amalgam fillings, requiring more frequent replacement and typically lasting around 5 years.

5. Gold Fillings (Inlays and Onlays)

Composition: It contains gold alloy (a combination of gold, copper and other metals) for superior strength.

Advantages: Extremely durable and exceptionally long-lasting tooth filling option, lasting 20+ years. It is also non-corrosive and well-tolerated by gum tissues.

Best used for: Posterior restorations, especially for patients who prefer the aesthetic and durable value that gold gives.

Considerations: It is the most expensive option and requires multiple dental visits for placement.

After learning about various types, it is important to know that dental filling is not merely a work of ensuring preventive or curative measures but also for aesthetic reasons. Here, an expert dental professional who knows the art of giving the most appealing natural look is needed since the procedure gives a transformative facial look. 

The expert team at Rouse Hill Smiles, led by Dr. Teena Bali, are renowned for giving a perfect smile and holistic care needed for any dental issues. The endless happy testimonials are proof of it!

Factors Influencing Dental Filling Selection

When you finally decide to get a tooth filling done, determining the most appropriate dental filling material plays a vital role. Factors below need to be considered:

• Location of Decay: Posterior teeth or back teeth require stronger materials like amalgam or gold to withstand chewing forces. Front teeth benefit from tooth-coloured options.
• The Extent of Damage: Larger cavities may benefit from certain materials over others.
• Durability Expectations: Patients seeking long-term solutions may opt for gold or ceramic dental filling.
• Tooth Filling Cost in Sydney: Budget considerations often influence material choice when exploring and contemplating Sydney dental filling costs.
• Aesthetic Needs: Composite and ceramic dental filling blend seamlessly with natural teeth.

Your dentist at Rouse Hill Smiles will discuss these factors and more to help determine the most suitable tooth-filling option for you. 

How Dental Filling Is Used

Some of the circumstances that may call for a recommendation for a dental filling are:

1. Cavity Restoration: When decay creates a hole in the enamel, a dental filling in that void prevents further deterioration. The damaged area is cleaned and the chosen filling material is used to restore function.
2. Fractured or Chipped Teeth: Composite resin is commonly used to repair minor chips and restore tooth shape and strength.
3. Worn-Down Teeth: Patients experiencing tooth erosion from grinding or acid exposure benefit from reinforcement with dental fillings.
4. Replacing Old Tooth Filling: Worn-out or cracked fillings require timely replacement to prevent bacterial infiltration.

Let Us ‘Fill’ Your Personality With A Flawless Smile

A tooth filling is essential for preserving oral health and preventing further decay. A cost-effective amalgam option, aesthetically pleasing composite resin or long-lasting gold filling can be recommended by the expert team at Rouse Hill Smiles.

So, if you need dental fillings while you are around Sydney, book an appointment right away with our highly skilled and caring dental experts. We will do our best to make you comfortable and give you that 10 10 smile!