Types of Dental Fillings

One of the most common dental treatments performed in a dental practice is the repair of broken or decayed teeth – usually using a filling. There are different types of fillings available to us but we will select the best one depending on where the break/decay is and personal preference of the patient.

• Amalgam filling – this is the well-known and recognised silver fillings and they have been around for a long time. They are not made entirely of silver but a combination of metals including silver, mercury and tin. Because of the mercury content, many people are opting for white fillings instead but studies show that the mercury levels are not harmful and are up to 8 times lower than eating certain fish. Amalgam fillings are long lasting and durable but are not the most aesthetically pleasing.

• Composite filling – this filling is a type of synthetic resin and is rapidly becoming the most popular type due to the absence of mercury and the natural look it provides. It chemically bonds to the tooth which means we can keep the preparation as small as possible and although it is not as hard wearing as amalgam, it can still last for several years. It does however come with its cons, it is not suitable for extremely large fillings, for fillings too close to the level of the gum, and it is usually more costly.

• Glass Ionomer filling – this also create a chemical bond with the tooth and have the added benefit of releasing fluoride which helps to prevent further decay. They are not very hard wearing so are usually only used as a temporary measure or to ‘patch up’ a tooth. Having said that some last many years!

• Inlay – this is a type of filling used when the decay/break in the tooth is quite large and something is needed to not only fill the hole but also to bond it to help thin or fragile walls from breaking further. These inlays are usually made in the laboratory of strengthened composite or compressed porcelain and require two appointments, one to prepare and one to fit the inlay. They are a bit like a crown but fit inside the tooth

Visit us in Princes Risborough if you have an teeth that need to be fixed.