What Are Your Options For Dental Fillings?

Dentistry has made leaps and bounds over the last several decades and now, getting a filling is a simple procedure that won’t take long. Where there once was only one way to get a filling, your dentist will talk to you about the different options available. If you think you might have a cavity before you head in for your next dental checkup, check out the different types of cavity fillings below so you’ll be able to make the right decision for your needs.

Different Dental Fillings And What They Do

Your dentist has a wide variety of options for filling your cavities. Here is a quick guide to each type.

Amalgam

This type of filling has been around for over 100 years. Amalgam fillings are incredibly strong, making them one of the best choices for fillings in your molars. They’ll hold up through all that chewing. They are made from metallic components so if you smile big or laugh hard, they will be noticeable. They’re the least expensive option for filling cavities too.

Composite

Often called filled resins, composite fillings are a blend of glass or quartz that can be matched to the color of your teeth. These are very durable and a good choice if you have smaller-scale needs in the front of your mouth. No one will notice them.

Metals

Gold or silver amalgams are also an option though gold is quite expensive. Some people would rather have that golden appearance plus the strength it provides. While metal fillings might not be the most attractive of your options, they last roughly 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced.

Ceramic

Ceramic fillings are the same color as your teeth. They don’t tend to stain over time either but the price is incredibly high.

Glass Ionomer

While this glass and acrylic blend helps protect your teeth by releasing fluoride, it’s much less durable than all the other dental fillings. You’ll be replacing it roughly every five years.

Your dentist will discuss with you where your cavity is located or where you need bonding and offer you options like the ones listed above. Once you have your fillings installed, make sure you protect your teeth by following impeccable oral hygiene practices…unless you like having your mouth numbed and drilled, that is!

Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources make sure to check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Jennifer Raskin is a freelance writer, wife and mom that loves cold weather despite her location in Florida, cooking, reading, watching ‘80s movies, weight-lifting, and wine tasting.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.

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