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what is a composite filling

One of the most recent advancements in dental filling technology is composite fillings, which provide an incredibly natural look and feel. You can receive composite fillings near you in gold, silver, and porcelain options. For more information about this service, please get in touch with us here at Westside Family Dental today.

What are Dental Fillings?

Composite fillings are a dependable and aesthetically pleasing way to restore teeth possibly harmed by accidents or decay. They resemble the natural colour of your original tooth and are essentially just standard tooth fillings. Such a structure can also be referred to as a resin filling, a white filling, and a tooth-coloured filling.

They perform the same function as conventional fillings to fix cracks, fissures, and decay in affected areas. Let’s learn about the different types of fillings available:

Types of Dental Fillings Used

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings combine metal’s durability with composite fillings’ aesthetic appeal. Yet, in addition to other factors, this comes at a far higher price.
Not only do these fillings match the colour of your teeth, but they are also more robust. Inlays, onlays, crowns, veneers, and implants all use these fillings. Ceramic restorations tend to survive longer because they are more powerful. Plus, they may need more than one appointment and will be more expensive than composite and amalgam fillings.

Silver Fillings

Typically, amalgam is known as a “silver filling.” Despite having a silver appearance, they comprise a combination of silver, tin, copper, and a trace quantity of mercury. Although mercury in the mixture has raised some concerns, it is perfectly safe. Mercury becomes stable and does not escape from the filler when combined with other metals.

Because it is challenging to keep the tooth dry, these fillings are frequently used. They are pronounced and tend to darken over time, so if you’re looking for fillings that blend in, there may be better options than this. Finally, silver fillings can cause teeth to crack; these cracks do not appear for many years after insertion.

Gold Fillings

Before the development of more aesthetic filling options, gold fillings were yearned for their longevity and were regarded as a status symbol. Today, gold fillings present an unpopular aesthetic, making their higher price less acceptable.

This filling can resist much chewing force because it is significantly more robust than other materials. Gold doesn’t rust; therefore, it won’t stain your teeth, yet it can be pricey and visible to the naked eye. Most dental offices do not use gold fillings, however.

Which One is Best?

The best filling type for you will depend on a variety of factors. Cost, filling placement, longevity, and durability are all things to consider. A composite filling will provide the most versatility for the majority of cavities. It is reasonably priced and natural-looking and can last up to ten years with proper maintenance.

Yet, a composite might need to be stronger if your cavity is large. Moreover, silver or gold fillings last longer than composites. A metal filling might be preferable for large holes in the back of the mouth, where chewing has the most significant effect.

Conversely, porcelain fillings are more durable than metal fillings and have the same cosmetic appeal as composites. Even so, they have the highest upfront cost, which makes them potentially expensive.

Get Dental Fillings in West Edmonton!

If you are experiencing any cavity or tooth damage, the first thing to remember is that the filling will help to secure further decay. Thus, contacting our dentist near you will help you avoid any more significant difficulties.

Do you need a dental filling? Our dentist in West Edmonton is here to help you. We provide many dental services to suit your needs and restore your perfect smile. Reach out to us today!