If you’ve been told you need a dental filling, you may be wondering what options are available. With several types of fillings used by dentists in Easton PA, it’s important to understand the differences to make the best choice for your needs. This article will break down the most common dental filling materials used for cavities and tooth decay in Easton PA.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin is one of the most popular tooth-colored dental filling options in Easton PA and throughout the U.S. Composite fillings are made from plastic and glass materials suspended in an acrylic resin. They match the color of your natural teeth and have a lifelike translucency.
Composite resins bond tightly to the inner walls of the cavity for a strong, durable filling. They can be used on front and back teeth and are suitable for both small and large cavities. Composite fillings don’t require removing as much healthy tooth structure as other filling types. This makes them a conservative choice.
The advantages of composite resin fillings include their natural appearance, durability, and versatility. However, they take longer to place than metal fillings. Composite fillings also cost more than other materials and aren’t quite as rugged as metal over the long-term.
Glass Ionomer Cement
Glass ionomer cement fillings have some unique benefits but are used less frequently than composites or amalgams. Glass ionomers are made from acrylic acids mixed with fluoro aluminosilicate glass powder. They chemically bond to the tooth for a tight seal.
Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride to help prevent cavities and tooth decay. They are well-suited for non-load bearing areas and erosive conditions like bruxism. Glass ionomers come in tooth-colored versions as well as silver shades.
While strong and long-lasting, glass ionomer fillings are more brittle than other materials and can chip or crack under pressure. Still, their fluoride release makes them a good choice for those prone to decay. They are also used for temporary fillings and liner materials.
Dental Amalgam Fillings
Dental amalgam is a metal alloy mixture containing mercury, silver, tin, copper, and other metals. Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years due to their strength and durability. Amalgams hold up well to chewing forces in back teeth.
The liquid mercury and metal powder are mixed and packed into the cavity where they harden into a stable filling. However, dental amalgam is increasingly falling out of favor due to concerns over its mercury content. Composite and other filling options are now displacing amalgam use.
While amalgams are strong, inexpensive, and long-lasting, their unsightly metallic color and mercury content has led many dentists in Easton PA to move away from them, though they remain an option in some cases.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are one of the most durable and biocompatible options for larger cavities, though they are more costly. Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy powder mixed with mercury for shaping and condensing into the prepared cavity.
The mercury is removed after the filling solidifies, leaving only the inert gold alloy. Gold has incredible compatibility with oral tissues and can last over 50 years with proper care. Gold fillings have a striking metallic appearance that some patients prefer. However, their high price limits their use.
Discuss Your Options
With your Easton dentist, you can discuss which type of filling makes the most sense for your dental needs, budget, and preferences. Today’s tooth-colored options like composite resin provide durable, visually appealing alternatives to unsightly metals. Work with your dentist to choose the ideal filling material for your smile.
Dental Fillings Available in Easton PA
For those in the Easton, PA area looking for an expert dental provider to discuss filling options, turn to Haddad Dental Associates. Dr. Kamal Haddad and his talented team have years of experience with all types of dental fillings, including composite resin, amalgam, gold, and glass ionomer fillings. At Haddad Dental Associates, they take time to explain the pros and cons of each filling material and make customized recommendations based on your dental needs and budget. Their state-of-the-art Easton, PA office uses advanced technology like digital x-rays for precise diagnoses prior to filling procedures. Patients appreciate Haddad Dental Associates’ dedication to providing pain-free, affordable, high-quality dentistry. To learn more about modern filling solutions from trusted Easton, PA professionals, schedule your next visit at Haddad Dental Associates.