What You Should Know About the Different Types of Dental Fillings
Understanding the various types of dental fillings is essential for maintaining oral health and addressing dental issues effectively. Over time, bacteria and plaque can cause decay in our teeth, leading to cavities if left untreated. This can result in gum disease, bad breath, and other serious health problems both in and outside the mouth. When cavities occur, dental offices, such as your local Hillsboro dental practice, use fillings to restore the tooth’s structure and function.
The Role of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are not only used to repair cavities but also to fix cracked and broken teeth that may have become worn over time. The treatment begins by numbing the area, followed by drilling into the tooth to remove all signs of decay. Once the decay is cleared, the cavity is filled to restore the tooth’s integrity. There are several types of dental fillings suitable for different conditions.
Types of Direct and Indirect Dental Fillings
There are two main categories of dental fillings: direct and indirect. Direct fillings are placed directly into cavities in one office visit. Indirect fillings, on the other hand, require more extensive work and involve more than one appointment.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are types of indirect fillings. Inlays are used to repair the inside of the tooth’s biting surface, while onlays extend over one or more cusps of the tooth, providing a more comprehensive restoration. Onlays are often referred to as partial crowns due to their extensive coverage.
Popular Materials for Dental Fillings
Different materials are used for dental fillings, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are renowned for their durability and longevity, protecting the cavity for up to 15 years or more. Gold is a strong metal that can withstand significant chewing pressures. However, gold fillings are expensive and usually require multiple dental visits. Some patients prefer the appearance of gold over silver-tone metals.
Silver Amalgam Fillings
Silver amalgam is another common choice due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. Although strong, the silver color does not match the natural tooth shade, and a small percentage of patients may experience allergic reactions to the metal.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings, made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass, are favored for their natural tooth-colored appearance. They bond well to the tooth structure, offering good support. While composites are versatile and can also repair cracked teeth, they are prone to chipping and can cost more than other alternatives.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are prized for their natural look, stain-resistance, and durability. They are an attractive option but can be as costly as gold fillings.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings, made from a mixture of acrylic and glass, are often recommended for fillings below the gum line or for young children. They release fluoride, providing additional protection to teeth and gums. However, they are less durable and may need to be replaced after about five years.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right type of dental filling involves considering various factors such as cost, appearance, durability, and specific dental needs. Discussing your options with your Hillsboro dental office is crucial. Not all practices offer every type of filling, and some materials may be more suitable for your situation.
Conclusion
The types of dental fillings available today provide numerous options for effectively treating cavities and restoring teeth. Whether opting for durable gold, budget-friendly silver, or aesthetically pleasing composites and ceramics, understanding these options helps maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Always consult with your dental professional to select the most practical and natural-looking filling for your needs.
East Wind Dental Care
Dental Implant placement in Hillsboro, Oregon, and Beaverton Oregon
family dentistry in Hillsboro
https://eastwinddentalcare.com
amily and Cosmetics Dentistry in Hillsboro, Oregon.
East Wind Dental Care Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon. We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health. When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Website: https://www.eastwinddentalcare.com
Dentist in Hillsboro, OR - East Wind Dental Care provides general dentistry in Hillsboro. Make your next family dentist appointment at East Wind Dental Care. General Dentistry, Preventative Dentistry, Pediatric (Kids!) Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Replacement. Crowns and Bridges, Dental Implants & Mini Dental Implants Dentures (with specialty), Complete denture, Partial Dentures.
East Wind Dental Care
Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon.
We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful.
East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health.
When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
East Wind Dental Care
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 17:00 and Saturdays with appointments.
Website: https://eastwinddentalcare.com/
Make an appointment online at https://eastwinddentalcare.com/contact-3/
