What Choices For Dental Fillings Are There?

When you have tooth decay, chances are you will need to have the decayed tooth material removed by a dentist. This involves the dentist drilling out the decayed area with a drill, and replacing the cavity with a filler material. The choice of filler material is usually silver alloy, gold or composite resin. Here is a break-down of the filler materials, to help you decide which filler material to choose.

Silver alloy

Silver alloy, otherwise known as "amalgam", has been used as a tooth filler for centuries. The alloy is made from a combination of mercury and silver, followed by small amounts of tin, nickel and copper. The main benefit of silver alloy as a filler is its durability. Silver alloy can last for many years. It is also the cheapest material to use to fill cavities. However, silver alloy is not visually attractive. Amalgam fillings can also discolor the natural tooth shade, creating a greyish hue. If a visually attractive smile is your goal, silver alloy is not such a good choice.

Gold

As a filler material, gold can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. It is also far more pleasing to the eye than silver alloy. Of course the downside is the cost factor, as gold can be up to ten times the cost of a silver alloy filling. Gold is a great choice for durability, and as well as being a visually pleasing metal filler. However, it is still very noticeable. Not the best choice if you wish to have a less obvious filler material in your teeth.

Composite resin

Composite resin provides the most natural looking tooth filler material, as it is color blended to match the natural color of teeth. Composite resin is more costly than silver alloy, costing approximately 2 times more than silver alloy, but much less costly than gold. As for durability, composite resin filler lasts approximately 12 years or more. Composite resin is best choice for a visually attractive smile, and is the most common filler material used for cavities today.

Whatever material you decide upon, the key to a great result is through a skilled dentist. Make sure your dentist is well qualified and experienced. A good dentist will discuss with you what your filler options are, and what the eventual cost will be. The price will normally include a check-up appointment to check that your filling is not giving you any problems. Most dentists can also offer a variety of other treatments, including cosmetic dentistry. If having a more attractive smile is a concern to you, discuss what your options are with your dentist, and think over his or her suggestions. Often something as simple as teeth whitening can dramatically improve your smile, and give you a boost of confidence. If your teeth are uneven or in bad condition, your dentist may suggest veneers an option. Or if you have any missing teeth, your dentist may suggest dental implants.

Ultimately, the basis of a great smile is good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and make sure you use dental floss. Reduce the amount of sugary drinks and snacks you eat, and cut back on stain inducing drinks such as coffee and red wine. Lastly, make sure that you schedule regular check-ups with your dentist.

If you want to improve your confidence or if you are self conscious about your smile then Tuart Hill Dental is a good place to be. For more details visit their website tuarthilldental.com.au.