Different Kinds of Dental Fillings
In the past, when cavities needed to be filled, silver amalgam fillings would do the job. This material has been used for over two hundred years. Amalgam is still filling cavities today due to the fact that it is strong and durable. But now there are also other kinds of materials that are in use to take care of filling dental cavities.Composite fillings are cosmetically appealing to the eye because they blend in with the color of the tooth. With a composite filling, the tooth will appear whole, as the filling will not be visible within the tooth. The material that comprises composite fillings is a combination of glass quartz and plastic resin. Light treatment is used to secure the filling within the tooth.
Glass ionomers may also be used to fill cavities. This type of filling is a mixture of glass and organic acid and has a translucent appearance. It is used to fill cavities that occur below the gum line. Not only does this type of filling look cosmetically appealing, it also releases fluoride, which will help to protect the teeth.
Porcelain is another material that the dentist can use to fill cavities. Gold, either in 14 or 18 karat, is an excellent material for this purpose as well.
If you have any cavities that require fillings, you may want to discuss with your dentist the various materials that are being used, so that your particular cavities can be filled with the best material for your specific situation.
Source: Dentist Torrance
Back to Blog and Media

