Dental fillings play an essential role in keeping your smile healthy. They not only repair damage caused by cavities but also prevent further decay and restore the function of your teeth. At Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto, we frequently get questions about the various types of dental fillings available. When choosing the best filling for your dental needs, knowing your options can help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking for dental fillings in Toronto or elsewhere, here’s what you should know about the different types of fillings.
Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings
Composite and amalgam are two of the most frequently used types of dental fillings. Both have advantages, but they address different needs and preferences.
- Composite Fillings: Made from a tooth-coloured resin material, composite fillings are a popular option for patients who want their fillings to blend in with their natural teeth. They are ideal for fillings in visible areas of the mouth because they are the same colour and appearance as your teeth. Another advantage of composite fillings is that they bond directly to the tooth, providing additional support.
- Amalgam Fillings: These are made from a combination of metals such as silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings are famous for their durability and strength. This makes them ideal for the molars, which receive the most chewing pressure. While they are more visible than composite fillings, their durability and cost-effectiveness make them the preferred option for many people.
When deciding between composite and amalgam fillings, consider the cavity’s location, the pressure applied to the tooth, and your aesthetic preferences. Your dentist at Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto, can assist you in making this decision and ensure that you select the most suitable option for your dental health.
Read More: The Benefits And Process Of Tooth-Coloured Fillings
Dental Fillings for Children
Dental fillings are equally important in children as they are in adults. Children’s teeth are more prone to cavities due to their thinner enamel and varying oral hygiene practices. Early cavity treatment with dental fillings helps to prevent the spread of decay. It also protects the health of their developing teeth.
- Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings, commonly used on children’s teeth, release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay. Their primary application is for cavities that are smaller in size or areas that are not subject to heavy chewing.
- Composite Fillings: Dentists also use composite fillings for children, particularly in visible areas, like adults. These fillings are ideal for older children who can cooperate during the filling process.
Regular dental check-ups are a proactive step in monitoring your oral health and treating cavities with appropriate dental fillings as soon as they are detected. This preventive approach can help you avoid more serious dental issues.
Signs You Need a Dental Filling
Understanding the signs that indicate you might need a dental filling is critical. Ignoring these warning signs can result in more severe damage and complex dental procedures.
- Tooth Sensitivity: If you experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, it could indicate a cavity that needs filling.
- Toothache: A persistent or sharp tooth pain frequently indicates decay in the tooth’s inner layers, necessitating a filling.
- Visible Holes or Dark Spots: If you notice a hole in your tooth or dark spots, decay has already occurred and should be treated with a filling as soon as possible.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Cracked or chipped teeth can expose the inner layers, making them susceptible to decay. Dental fillings can repair the damage and protect the tooth from further harm.
Also Read: Can You Replace Old Fillings?
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please get in touch with Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto. Early intervention with a dental filling can prevent more serious dental issues.
Understanding the different types of dental fillings available and recognizing the signs that you may need one can help you keep your smile healthy for years. Whether you’re considering composite vs. amalgam fillings or are concerned about dental fillings for children, our Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto, team is here to provide expert care and advice!
