The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups for Filling Maintenance

Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth cavities. Tooth cavities form when food debris is left between teeth and on the teeth’s surfaces leading to the growth of harmful bacteria. The harmful bacteria begin to erode the tooth’s surface, causing holes. When this happens, you need to visit the dentist near you for tooth filling. Failure to do so can lead to tooth sensitivity, chewing problems, and tooth loss. When you go to the dentist who fixed dental fillings in Sanger, Tx, they will notify you that there are different fillings. This piece will take you through these types and how to care for them.

Different Types of Dental Fillings: What’s Best for You?

Before we list some common tooth fillings, it is essential to know why you need a filling. Here are some of the consequences of not getting a tooth filling:

• It can lead to gum diseases and gingivitis.
• Tooth loss.
• Severe pain and tooth sensitivity.
• Problems when chewing.

Now that you know the consequences of not having a tooth filling, what are the different types of fillings, and which will suit you?

Gold Cast Fillings

As the name indicates, gold cast fillings are made of gold, making them one of the most durable dental fillings. However, some patients may not be comfortable having these types of fillings as they are visible, which might make them uncomfortable. In addition, gold cast fillings are expensive when compared to amalgam fillings.

Pros of Gold Cast Fillings

• They can withstand chewing forces.
• They are durable- with proper care, they can last for 10-15 years.
• They are aesthetically pleasing when compared to silver amalgam fillings.

Cons of Gold Cast Fillings

• They are expensive.
• Requires additional dental visits.
• Some people prefer tooth-colored fillings when compared to colored ones.

Silver Amalgam fillings

These are the most common types of fillings. This is because they are cheap and durable. Moreover, dentists prefer applying these fillings as they are malleable. Silver amalgam fillings are made of copper, tin, zinc, and mercury.

Pros Of Silver Amalgam Fillings

• They are cheap.
• They are durable: can last more than a decade with good care.
• They are sturdy as they can withstand the forces when chewing.

Cons of Silver Amalgam Fillings

• They don’t match your natural teeth.
• Involves the removal of some healthy parts of your tooth.
• It can cause tooth discoloration due to mercury.
• Some people are allergic to amalgam fillings.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are made of glass and acrylic. These fillings are usually recommended for children whose teeth are still forming. This is because the fillings release fluoride into the affected tooth, preventing further decay.

Pros of Glass Ionomer Fillings

• Releases fluoride to prevent further decay.
• It is less expensive than gold-cast fillings

Cons of Glass Ionomer Fillings

• It is less durable than silver amalgam fillings.
• It is more susceptible to wear and fracture.

Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings

These types of fillings are made of plastic and resin material. The filling is placed inside the tooth while it is soft and then hardened with a special light. The good thing with composite fillings is that they can be customized to match the color of your natural teeth.

Pros of Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings

• They can be customized to match the color of your other teeth.
• It can be used to repair worn, chipped or broken teeth.
• Less tooth structure is removed as compared to silver amalgam fillings.

Cons of Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings

• They are not as durable as gold cast and amalgam filings
• They are prone to chipping
• Are costlier than amalgam fillings
• They take more time to apply than amalgam fillings.

How To Care for A Dental Filling After It Has Been Placed

Once the tooth filling dentist has placed the tooth filling, they will give you aftercare tips to ensure your dental filling lasts for a long. Here are some of the aftercare tips:

Don’t Put Pressure on The Treated Tooth for A Day

It is recommended that you don’t chew food with the treated tooth, as this can put unwanted pressure and this can dislodge the filling.

Practice Proper Oral Hygiene

You need to take care of your teeth even after getting a tooth filling. Brushing and flossing, as recommended by the Sanger dentist, is essential. However, don’t use force when brushing the treated tooth, as this can dislodge the filling.

Avoid Sucking on Teeth

At times, you might notice that you habitually suck on your teeth. However, this is not recommended when you have tooth fillings, as they can come out or loosen.