When you have a cavity, a chipped tooth, or dental decay, the dentist may choose to treat the tooth with a dental filling. Fillings are one of the most common dental services worldwide; every day, thousands and thousands of dental fillings are serviced. You probably have at least one filling yourself! There may be a few things, however, that you don’t know about these small, unassuming dental gadgets.
Dental fillings come in a variety of materials. The most fillings are either composite or amalgam. Composite fillings, also called “white”, “cosmetic”, or “tooth-colored” fillings, are a synthetic material that is strong and which bonds to the tooth. Many people prefer composite fillings because they are aesthetically pleasing. Amalgam fillings, on the other hand, are made of a silver alloy and have a metal appearance. While not as beautiful as composite fillings, amalgam fillings tend to be less expensive, can withstand chewing forces, and often last longer than composite fillings. Some dentists offer gold fillings. Gold fillings may be more beautiful than amalgam, but are expensive.
When you visit the dentist for your next cavity treatment, ask the dentist about the pros and cons of different filling materials. Our team is committed to helping you arrive at the dental solution that is best for your needs and goals. Dental fillings support and strengthen damaged teeth and can last many years with proper treatment. If you have questions about dental fillings, we invite you to contact Albrecht Family Dentistry today!