Ask the Dentist!
What Are My Choices For Fixing Cavities?
Many adults grew up with “silver” fillings used to fix cavities as a kid. Although this type of filling is still available, there are alternative options to restore teeth. Fillings that match the color of teeth, fillings that release fluoride to help protect against new cavities, and no filling at all. Let’s discuss each type’s pros and cons to better understand which restorative decision is right for you.
Amalgam
Amalgam is the “silver” filling material that you have likely seen or have in your mouth. It is a mixture of Mercury, Copper, Tin, Silver, and small amounts of other metals that, when combined, forms the solid material used as a filling. This type of filling is very durable and typically lasts a long time. Most patients these days do not prefer Amalgam due to the color and Mercury within the filling. Most government agencies have deemed Amalgam safe despite containing Mercury.
Resin Composites
Resin Composites are also known as “white” fillings or tooth-colored fillings. This type of filling seems to do very well in front teeth and is acceptable for back teeth. Although they handle chewing forces as well as Amalgam without cracking, they tend to not last as long as silver filings. Placement requires the area to be free of blood and saliva, making them much more technique sensitive to place. They are most popular in front teeth because the color can be matched to natural teeth.
Glass Ionomers
Glass Ionomers are a type of tooth-colored filling that releases small amounts of fluoride to help prevent tooth decay. Glass Ionomers are nowhere near as durable as Resin Composites or Amalgam, and they tend to wear down rather quickly when placed on back teeth that are used for heavy chewing. They perform very well on root surfaces that are susceptible to tooth decay. Glass Ionomers typically do not match natural tooth color as well as Resin Composites do.
Silver Diamide Fluoride (SDF)
Some very small cavities can be managed with Silver Diamide Fluoride (SDF), which can be painted directly onto the cavity. SDF can slow down the progression of a cavity but will not repair the working surface of a tooth. It is often used in baby teeth to help control the decaying process until the permanent teeth come in.
Porcelain
Although Porcelain fillings are typically not the main treatment option for restoring cavities, they are very durable like Amalgam, and are tooth-colored like Resin Composites. Using Porcelain usually requires more than one appointment and is more costly than other filling materials. It is however a very good treatment option.
So, before your next filling discuss with your dentist your options to decide what best suits you or contact our office for more information. Give us a call at (225) 926-4203 or visit our website.