Dental fillings are a form of restorative dental treatment most commonly used when the integrity and function of a tooth is compromised by a cavity.
During a dental visit, your dentist will check for signs of tooth decay and examine your existing fillings (if you have any) to ensure that they are not loose or broken. If you have a cavity that needs to be filled or existing fillings that need to be replaced, your dentist will discuss dental filling options with you and explain their strengths and potential drawbacks.
Types of fillings
The most commonly used dental fillings are the following.
Dental amalgam fillings
Also known as silver amalgam, these fillings are actually made of a mix of metals. Because of their silver colour, they are typically reserved for back teeth. We don’t commonly use silver amalgam fillings at Affinity Dental Sherwood Park, but their benefits include durability and affordability.
Tooth-coloured fillings
In most cases where a dental filling is needed, we will use a tooth-coloured filling made of composite polymer, which approximates the colour of your natural teeth. This type of filling may be done in one appointment, but it is more technically demanding and requires more time and care than dental amalgam.
Alternatives to fillings
Whatever the material used, a dental filling cannot be used to restore a tooth that has sustained significant structural damage such as a break, crack, or large cavity that threatens the whole tooth. In those situations, your dentist will recommend other restorative solutions, such as a dental crown or inlay/onlay.
Contact Affinity Dental Sherwood Park today for more information about dental fillings.