What’s the Best Filling for Teeth?

Tooth cavities are a prevalent issue that cuts across all age groups. It is among the leading causes of tooth loss worldwide. Cavities come about due to several reasons, such as underlying conditions, including xerostomia, lousy eating habits, and poor oral hygiene. The fascinating thing about tooth decay is that it doesn’t happen overnight; it takes several years before you can notice any symptoms.

However, you should not wait for the situation to worsen for you to get a dental filling near you. Prioritize your oral health by visiting our dentist in Southwest Houston, TX, to get your teeth repaired, and your smile renewed. If you choose to dilly-dally, you might get help when the damage is extensive, and the only choice will be to remove the tooth.

You should take advantage of the different tooth fillings we have since they can meet your needs and preferences.

What Are the Types of Tooth Fillings?

Our dentist in Southwest Houston, TX, has several types of tooth fillings that you can opt for depending on what you prefer. But to get the correct type of filling, you will need to consider the following:

• How much will it cost?
• What is the location of the tooth?
• Are you allergic to metal?
• What’s the extent of the damage?
• Are you keen on dental aesthetics?

When you have discussed the above questions with our dentist, you can pick the fillings of your choice. And the choices are:

Gold Fillings

They are called gold fillings, but they are not fashioned from pure gold but a mixture of several metals such as copper. They have been used for decades, and patients go for them because of their durability.

They are not natural-looking, so some people might find them aesthetically unappealing. However, if you don’t mind the color and don’t have metal allergies, you can go for them. But you should know that they are not cheap.

Silver Fillings

They also go by amalgam fillings and have been around for nearly a century. They are also not made from pure silver but a mixture of metals such as copper and tin. They also have 50% elemental mercury that bids the different materials to form the amalgam.

Silver fillings lack the natural tooth color, so people will not choose them because they are aesthetically poor. But they will save a buck or two since they are durable and don’t cost much to get them.

Another downside is that more of your tooth structure will have to be removed to accommodate them, which can be an issue. In any case, our dentist will help you determine if it is the right move for you.

Composite Fillings

These fillings are tooth-colored since they are made from powdered glass and plastic (acrylic resin). They are a favorite for most patients since they are inconspicuous and match the color of your teeth. But this means that it will cost you more than silver fillings. Either way, they are sturdy and will still do the job.

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain resembles the color and looks of your natural teeth. When it comes to aesthetics, they top the list. They are sturdy and can last almost as long as silver and gold fillings. They are stain-resistant, so you can say goodbye to tooth stains. However, they are almost, if not the same price as gold fillings, but they are worth it.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

They are also tooth-colored fillings, but they are not as sturdy as composite or porcelain fillings. They are crafted using acrylic and special glass. They also contain fluoride, which will help prevent cavities, so they are the perfect option for kids.

How Long Do Fillings Take for Tooth Cavities?

Getting a filling is a straightforward process that takes about an hour or less to complete. If it is a simple cavity, it will take as little as 20 minutes. The materials used will also determine how long the procedure will take or if you will require a second visit.

For instance, composite fillings take time to complete, but it’s usually within a single visit. Porcelain or gold fillings typically take more than one visit.

It takes about 24 hours for amalgam fillings to set completely. Glass ionomer and composite fillings are cured under a special light, which will only take a few minutes.

Your tooth will heal quickly after the filling has been placed. You may experience a bit of sensitivity that will last about a day.

Tooth fillings will help prevent further deterioration of the tooth. Contact us at Mi Casa Dental to schedule an appointment.