Despite advancements in dental health solutions, tooth decay remains a menace for most Canadians. It stems from severe plaque build-up on the teeth caused by consuming foods and beverages with high sugar content. This, coupled with poor oral hygiene, results in the accumulation of bad bacteria in the mouth, which damage the tooth structure. Tooth decay can result in infections, severe pain, and even tooth loss. However, all is not lost, thanks to restorative dentistry solutions like dental fillings.

In this blog post, we learn more about dental fillings and the various types available. Keep reading to find out more!

Dental fillings are single or combinations of plastics, metals, or other materials used in repairing or restoring teeth. One of their most common uses is to fill areas of your tooth that your dentist has eliminated due to decay. Dentists also use fillings to repair broken or cracked teeth or teeth worn down by bruxism.

When you go in for a cavity filling procedure, your dentist starts by numbing the areas around the respective tooth with a local anesthetic. Next, they get rid of the decayed area with the help of a laser or drill. Once your dentist has ascertained that all the decay is out, it is time to clean the void and ready it for the filling. After the filling is in, they will finish and polish it.

Dental fillings are classified according to the type of material they are made of. Several factors affect the type of fillings used, such as the location of the tooth that needs filling, the costs involved and allergies to the filling material.

Below are the various types of commonly used dental fillings today:

Also known as silver fillings, amalgam fillings are the most common type of dental fillings. They are a mixture of silver, tin, copper, and elemental mercury. Amalgam fillings have existed for over 150 years and remain the most cost-effective and durable type of filling.

On average, these fillings can last up to 15 years, and dentists find them easy to use because of their malleability.

Their main drawback, however, is that they lack an aesthetic appeal. For this reason, they may not be a wise choice for visible teeth. Besides, the material may expand and contract with temperature changes, causing tooth cracks.

Composite fillings are a popular choice among patients because they are tooth-coloured. Made by combining ceramic and acrylic resins, these fillings chemically bond with the surrounding teeth, providing additional support. Composite fillings are not as long-lasting as their counterparts and, on average, have a seven-year lifespan, although they can go up to ten years.

In addition to cavity fillings, these fillings are used to fill in tiny gaps between teeth and repair chipped teeth.

In addition to being much pricier than composite or amalgam restorations, gold fillings are also more long-lasting. The fillings are pre-made and then cemented onto the teeth, which is why they can withstand several years of chewing. While they last an average of 20 years or even more, they aren’t a popular choice thanks to their pricing and the numerous dental visits they require. In addition, they aren’t exactly pleasant looking as they can’t blend in with the surrounding teeth.

These are made using a certain type of porcelain and have a lifespan of 15 years or longer. Ceramic fillings are manufactured in a dental lab before being glued into the tooth. They are tooth-colored and more stain- and abrasion-resistant than composite resin fillings.

However, they are even more costly than gold fillings, making them less popular among patients. Furthermore, they are brittle and, therefore, have to be used in areas with extensive decay to lessen the chances of decay.

Cavities pose serious dental issues regardless of age and shouldn’t be left untreated. If you suspect you have a cavity, ensure you pay a dentist a visit for an accurate assessment. If the damage isn’t extensive, your dentist will do their best to restore your tooth structure using dental fillings.

Are you a resident of Toronto, ON, and need dental fillings near you? At 6ix Eglinton Dental. We are your go-to dental clinic, offering tailored solutions for each of our patients. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment.

With the holiday season fast approaching, maintaining that dazzling smile is essential now more than ever. Simple habits like flossing, brushing, avoiding too sugary foods and sipping through straws could go a long way.

At 6ix Eglinton Dental in Toronto, ON, we are committed to ensuring white, bright smiles throughout the holidays and beyond. Come and visit our dentist in Toronto today for personalized care.