What is Actually in a Filling?

When you suffer from tooth decay or have a cavity, you’ll likely need a filling. There are different types of fillings available, some that you will be able to choose from, while others will be down to what the dentist offers.

In this guide, we’re going to discuss the different types of filling so that you have peace of mind for your next dentist Peterborough appointment.

• Amalgam Fillings

These fillings are made from mercury and silver alloy. Amalgam fillings are long-lasting and have been a common choice for over a century. They typically last 15-20 years and are quite affordable for both the patient and the practice.

As amalgam fillings are noticeable silver, they’re typically used on the back teeth where the most damage can be done from chewing. The dentist in Richmond will first remove all the decay from the tooth and clean the cavity. They’ll then add the filling material, such as these from Kent Express, and you’ll then be free from pain.

You can find out more about filling materials at kentexpress.co.uk.

• Composite Fillings

Although composite fillings aren’t as hard-wearing, they are still incredibly strong. These fillings are preferred by patients as they are tooth coloured rather than silver, so are a lot less noticeable. The dentist will choose a shade that matches your natural tooth colour and set the filling in place with light so that it is dry as soon as the treatment is done.

• Glass Ionomers

Ionomers release fluoride and create a chemical link with the tooth to prevent further decay. These fillings are used mainly on baby teeth for kids or areas of the teeth that aren’t affected by actual biting. There isn’t a lot of prep needed, and they are fairly weak.

• Gold Inlays

Gold inlays – or onlays – are used anywhere in the mouth. It is a gold plate that is either placed within the biting surface of the tooth or used to cover the top of the tooth itself. As gold is super hard-wearing and long-lasting, meaning these fillings are cost-efficient as they last years.

The gold for the inlay is made using an impression of your tooth bite. The mould is then sent to a lab to have the gold produced for the treatment. Although it is cost-efficient, the filling is typically more expensive than others.

• Porcelain Inlays

There is also the option for porcelain inlays. These have to be designed digitally over several appointments and then created in the lab. Porcelain is hard-wearing and long-lasting and can be coloured to match your tooth shade for a more natural finish. This type of filling is quite expensive but is worth considering if you’re more concerned about how the filling will look.

So, these are a few of the filling options you might already have or have to consider in the future. Hopefully, knowing the different types of filling will make the process a lot less intimidating. There is a lot to consider when choosing a filling, and cost and appearance will be taken into account.

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