Which tooth filling is best?

One of the most common restorative dental treatments, tooth fillings restore cavities, repair fractures and stop bacteria from entering the tooth to ensure that the problem doesn’t become bigger or more expensive in the future. Over the years, technological advancements have improved both the materials and the methods used for tooth fillings.

There are a range of fillings available, each with their own pros and cons.

Composite Resin Tooth Fillings

Composite Resin fillings, also known as white fillings, are the most widely used tooth filling material. They’re made from a mixture of plastic and glass compounds.

Pros

• Natural-looking and aesthetically-pleasing – they’re made to mimic the natural colour of your teeth!
• An affordable option
• Ideal for placement in front teeth and small fillings
• Less treatment time in chair than porcelain or ceramic fillings
• Relatively versatile

Cons

• Shorter lifespan than porcelain and ceramic fillings
• Not well suited for large or deep fillings

Amalgam Tooth Fillings

Amalgam fillings are the most traditional types of fillings, either silver or gold in colour.

Pros

• Durable and useful in areas of the mouth where biting pressure is higher, and the fillings are not very visible (such as the molars)

Cons

• Decreased popularity now that natural-looking fillings have advanced
• Not as visually pleasing as other options

Glass Ionomer Tooth Fillings

Made from a combination of acrylic acids and fine glass, Glass Ionomer fillings form a chemical link with the tooth.

Pros

• Little to no drilling or preparation required
• Able to release chemical compounds such as fluoride, which helps prevent future cavities
• Suitable for babies and children
• Great for gum line fillings and moist areas in the mouth

Cons

• Relatively weak compared to other filling materials – so they are not suitable for biting surfaces
• Don’t generally match the translucency of natural teeth as well as porcelain, ceramics or composites

With a range of options for dental fillings, you should discuss with your dentist which tooth filling is best suited for you and the extent of your dental issue. For more advice and quality dental treatment, visit our dedicated team at Parkview Dental Practice. To book an appointment, call us on (07) 5443 9055 or book online.

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