Fillings For My Teeth: What Are My Options?
It’s become common practice to take better care of our teeth in the last few decades.
In the past, dental hygiene was simply something that needed to be taken care of when a problem would come up. Unfortunately, despite our efforts to keep our teeth clean, cavities still happen. At Janz Family Dental clinic, we pride ourselves on the care we provide for you and your teeth. Let our dental staff walk you through the different options you have when it comes to filling your cavities.
Different Types of Filling
With advances in dental technology, the industry now has a number of different materials and methods available to safely fill cavities. Let’s take a look at which methods and materials are most commonly used by dentists across the country:
1. Amalgam
As the name suggests, this type of filling is made up of a mixture of different kinds of metal. It contains tin, copper, silver, zinc, as well as about 50% mercury. Dentists have been using this type of filling for over 150 years, and it remains one of the most commonly used materials to this day. They’re the most inexpensive option on the list and last for a long time. The only real drawbacks are their tendency to darken over time, and become more visible and their mercury content, which (although deemed safe by health Canada) might make some parents nervous when getting fillings for their children.
2. Composite
Composite fillings are made from powdered glass and acrylic resin. This material is far less durable than metal and should only be used for teeth that don’t experience a high level of pressure. On the plus side, it can be coloured to match your teeth, which makes it perfect for smaller fillings on the surface of your front four.
3. Gold
It’s durable, it’s long lasting and it’s effective for up to two decades. As far as fillings go, there are worse options than gold. The only true drawbacks are the price—gold is the most expensive material used in fillings—and the fact that gold fillings require more than one appointment to be applied.
4. Porcelain
Porcelain is similar to gold in that it’s used to repair damage that’s almost, but not quite, extensive enough to warrant a crown. While less durable than their gold counterparts, porcelain fillings can be coloured to look like your natural teeth.
5. Resin
These types of fillings are generally used on children’s teeth and are great for filling in tiny cavities. For an appointment with a children’s dentist in Edmonton, give us a call today and schedule an appointment.
For teeth cleaning in Edmonton, or 24 hour emergency dentist services call Janz Family Dental Clinic. Our staff will have your smile looking great in no time at all.
