Types of Dental Fillings
Dental health is one of the most fundamental building blocks of our quality of life. Having healthy teeth not only creates a more aesthetically appealing smile, but also plays a critical role in the proper functioning of numerous processes, from digestion to overall immunity. Our ability to speak confidently, smile confidently, and enjoy the foods we enjoy in our daily lives largely depends on our oral and dental health.
However, despite all our care, our teeth can be damaged over time for various reasons. Cavities, cracks in the enamel, fractures, or abrasions due to impact are common problems faced by many. These problems not only cause aesthetic concerns but, if left untreated, can also pave the way for more serious dental and gum disease. This is where dental fillings come into play.
A dental filling is the process of cleaning a damaged or decayed tooth and reshaping it with appropriate filling materials. Because there are so many different types of dental fillings, patients can be initially confused.
What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is one of the most frequently used treatment methods for repairing teeth damaged by decay, fractures, or trauma. When a cavity develops, the decayed tissue is first removed, and this process creates small or large cavities. These cavities need to be filled with specialized dental fillings. This increases the tooth’s durability and preserves its natural form.
The purpose of fillings is not only to restore the tooth’s aesthetic appearance; they also enhance chewing function, ensure healthy use for many years, and prevent more serious problems. Untreated decay can progress over time and lead to tooth loss. Therefore, a filling is an essential part of dental health, providing both preventative and restorative benefits.
Types of Dental Fillings
Today, thanks to advancements in technology, the materials used in dental fillings have diversified considerably, offering increasingly durable and aesthetic solutions. The goal is not only to cover decay but also to preserve the tooth’s natural appearance and provide long-term comfort.
Of course, each filling material has its own advantages and limitations. Therefore, when deciding which type of filling to use, several factors are taken into consideration: the extent of the decay, the location of the tooth in the mouth, your aesthetic expectations, and, of course, your budget. For example, more natural and aesthetically pleasing fillings are preferred for front teeth, while more durable fillings may be more suitable for back teeth.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are one of the longest-used filling types in dentistry and are instantly recognizable by their silver color. They contain a mixture of metals such as mercury, silver, tin, and copper. These fillings, used safely for years, are known for their durability.
Advantages:
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They are extremely durable and can be used for many years without losing their functionality.
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They are particularly resistant to chewing forces, especially on the back molars.
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It is a more economical option than other filling types.
Disadvantages:
- Because it is not tooth-colored, it is not preferred for front teeth due to aesthetic reasons; it can give a gray or metallic appearance.
- It may darken slightly around the tooth over time.
- The presence of mercury may cause concern in some people; however, amalgam fillings used today comply with international safety standards.
It is generally preferred for back molars, where aesthetics are not a primary concern and durability is more important.
Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain and custom-prepared fillings prepared in a laboratory environment, bonded to the tooth. They are generally preferred in the methods known as “inlays” and “onlays.” They are one of the most commonly used modern filling types today, offering highly successful results in terms of both aesthetics and durability.
Advantages:
- Because they are tooth-colored, they provide an extremely natural appearance and meet high aesthetic expectations.
- They are highly resistant to discoloration and are not easily affected by factors such as tea, coffee, or smoking.
- With proper care, they can be safely used for many years.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost compared to other filling types.
- The application process is longer because it requires a laboratory stage.
- Ceramic fillings are especially preferred for front teeth, where aesthetics are crucial, or for repairing extensive decay.
Gold Fillings
While gold fillings were widely used in the past and are less preferred today due to aesthetic concerns, they are still considered one of the most durable filling types. Their durability and longevity make them an attractive option for some patients.
Advantages:
- They are notable for their durability; they can be used without problems for 15–20 years, or even longer.
- They are highly resistant to chewing forces, making them safe for use in back teeth.
Disadvantages:
- They are considerably more expensive than other filling types.
- Because they are not tooth-colored, they create an aesthetically unattractive and unnatural appearance.
- The application process can often be longer due to the laboratory process.
Gold fillings can be preferred when durability is more important than aesthetics, especially for back molars. While not used as frequently today, they are still one of the most reliable options in terms of durability.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are commonly known as “white fillings.” Their greatest advantage is that they are tooth-colored, preserving the natural appearance of teeth. They are made of a special resin-based material and hardened with a special light after being placed on the tooth. This ensures an aesthetically pleasing result while preserving chewing function.
Advantages:
- Because they are tooth-colored, they appear natural and are virtually unnoticeable. This makes them the most preferred filling type for those with aesthetic concerns.
- They are highly effective in treating small to medium-sized cavities.
- They chemically bond to the tissue, increasing its durability.
- Thanks to today’s advanced materials, they are longer lasting than ever before.
Disadvantages:
- They are not as durable as amalgam fillings; they can break or wear over time, especially in cases of extensive decay.
- The installation time may be slightly longer than amalgam fillings.
- Exposure to staining agents such as tea, coffee, and cigarettes can cause discoloration over time.
Composite fillings are one of the most popular options, both in terms of appearance and usability, especially in front teeth or areas where smile aesthetics are a priority.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are a type of filling typically used in primary teeth or for minor cavities. They contain fluoride, which helps prevent recurrence of cavities.
Advantages:
- Protects teeth against cavities thanks to the release of fluoride.
- Easy to apply, they are especially popular in children.
- They have a tooth-like appearance.
Disadvantages:
- Not as durable as composite or amalgam.
- They may be less resistant to chewing forces.
- They are often used for temporary fillings or in pediatric dentistry.
Filling Prices
Dental filling prices can vary depending on the filling material used, the location of the tooth, the extent of the decay, and the treatment method used. For example, the cost may differ between fillings placed on front teeth for aesthetic purposes and those placed on back teeth to withstand chewing forces. Furthermore, different filling types, such as amalgam, composite, porcelain, or glass ionomer, are evaluated separately.
In addition, the quality of service provided by the clinic where the procedure will be performed, the technologies used, the experience of the dentist, and any additional procedures that may be required during the treatment process can all affect the price.
