What are Dental Fillings Made Of?

Dental fillings are a common dental treatment used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury. They are designed to fill in the damaged area of the tooth and prevent further decay or damage from occurring. Cosmetic dentists often use different types of fillings to achieve the best aesthetic results for their patients. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of dental fillings used by cosmetic dentists, including composite fillings, ceramic fillings, gold fillings, and glass ionomer fillings. We will examine the advantages and disadvantages of each type of filling and discuss the procedure for placing them. By understanding the different options available, patients can make informed decisions about their dental care and work with their cosmetic dentist to determine the best type of filling for their individual needs.

Cosmetic Dental Fillings

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are a popular choice for cosmetic dentistry due to their ability to closely match the color of the natural teeth. They are made of a mixture of plastic and glass and are applied in layers to build up the filling. Advantages of composite fillings include their aesthetic appearance, the ability to bond to the tooth, and the fact that they require less removal of healthy tooth structure. Disadvantages include their tendency to stain or discolor over time and their durability compared to other types of fillings. The procedure for placing composite fillings involves removing the decayed or damaged area of the tooth and applying the composite material in layers, which is then cured with a special light.

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings, also known as porcelain fillings, closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth due to their translucency and color-matching abilities. They are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them a popular choice for cosmetic dentistry. Advantages of ceramic fillings include their natural appearance, biocompatibility, and their long-lasting durability. Disadvantages include their high cost, the need for multiple visits to the dentist, and the fact that they require more healthy tooth structure to be removed during placement. The procedure for placing ceramic fillings involves removing the damaged or decayed area of the tooth and taking a mold of the tooth to create a custom ceramic filling. The filling is then bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are a tooth-colored filling option that releases fluoride over time, helping to prevent further decay and strengthening the tooth. They are often used in areas of the mouth that are not subject to high chewing forces, such as in the front teeth or for small cavities. Advantages of glass ionomer fillings include their aesthetic appearance, their ability to release fluoride, and the fact that they require less healthy tooth structure to be removed during placement. Disadvantages include their lower durability compared to other types of fillings and their susceptibility to wear and tear over time. The procedure for placing glass ionomer fillings involves removing the damaged or decayed area of the tooth and applying the glass ionomer material, which is then cured with a special light.

Other Filling Materials

In addition to the materials listed above, there are other types of materials that can also be used for fillings. However, cosmetic dentists tend to avoid using these materials because they do not have an aesthetic appearance. Additionally, metal fillings can cause discoloration due to corrosion.

Amalgam

Amalgam fillings have been used for many years and are known for their strength and durability. They are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. The amalgam filling is easy to place, and it can withstand the forces of biting and chewing, making it suitable for use in the back teeth. However, they are less aesthetically pleasing than other filling options and can be noticeable when talking or laughing. Amalgam fillings may also expand or contract with temperature changes, which can cause the tooth to crack or break over time. Some people are concerned about the use of mercury in amalgam fillings, although the American Dental Association has stated that the amount of mercury used in the filling is safe.

Gold

Gold fillings, also known as inlays or onlays, are a long-lasting and durable option for restoring teeth. They are highly resistant to wear and corrosion and can last for many years or even decades. Advantages of gold fillings include their strength and durability, their biocompatibility, and their ability to be easily shaped and fitted to the tooth. Disadvantages include their cost, their color (which can be noticeable in the mouth), and the fact that they require more healthy tooth structure to be removed during placement. The procedure for placing gold fillings involves removing the damaged or decayed area of the tooth and creating a custom gold filling that is then cemented into place.

How Filling Materials Compare

Type of Filling	Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Composite	Plastic and glass	Aesthetic appearance, bonding to tooth structure, minimal removal of healthy tooth structure	Susceptible to staining or discoloration, may not last as long as other types of fillings
Ceramic	Porcelain	Natural appearance, highly durable, resistant to wear	High cost, may require more removal of healthy tooth structure, may require multiple dental visits
Glass Ionomer	Acrylic and glass	Releases fluoride, minimal removal of healthy tooth structure, may be used to repair root decay	Less durable than other types of fillings, susceptible to wear and tear
Amalgam	Silver and mercury	Strong and durable, easy to place, can withstand forces of biting and chewing	Less aesthetically pleasing, may expand or contract with temperature changes, may contain mercury
Gold	Gold alloy	Strong and durable, biocompatible, easily shaped and fitted to the tooth	High cost, less aesthetically pleasing, may require more removal of healthy tooth structure

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different types of dental filling materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to discuss your options with a cosmetic dentist who can help you make an informed decision about which material is best for you. In general, ceramic and composite fillings provide the most natural-looking aesthetic appearance and  durability, which is why they are primarily used by cosmetic dentists. Although amalgam and gold fillings have their own advantages, their appearance makes them less than ideal for use in cosmetic dentistry. Glass ionomer fillings are a good option for small cavities, as they help to release fluoride and require less healthy tooth structure to be removed during placement. Ultimately, the right filling material for you will depend on your budget, lifestyle, aesthetic goals, and individual dental needs.