What types of dental fillings can fix your cavities?
Cavities are common dental concern experienced by many patients. Modern dentistry offers different types of dental fillings to restore your tooth. Choosing the right tooth filling depends on several factors, including the size and location of the cavity, cost, and cosmetic preference. In our blog, you will find most common types of dental fillings, helping you decide which option might be right for you.
Composite Resin Fillings
If you’re looking to achieve a natural look and it is a priority for you, consider composite resin fillings. They are designed to match your teeth. composite fillings are made up of glass with resin, these tooth-colored fillings are ideal for visible areas like front teeth and small cavities.
Advantages:
- Natural-looking
- Strong and firm, withstanding mild chewing pressure
- Minimally invasive, requiring the least reduction of healthy tooth structure
Composite fillings are usually done in a single dental appointment and are an affordable choice for patients who value aesthetics and cost.
Porcelain Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)
Porcelain fillings are another premium choice for patients looking for the right durability and aesthetic match. These fillings are custom-made in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth at a follow-up appointment.
Advantages:
- Very durable against stains and damage
- Suited for larger cavities
- Esthetically pleasant
This tendency makes porcelain fillings a great alternative for patients with bigger cavities or who value a long-term solution. They are generally more expensive than dental composites.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are a classic restorative material to fill cavities. They are custom and need at minimum two dental visits in which to place. Though relatively unusual today, gold fillings are a safe and durable choice.
Advantages:
- Very durable, lasting many years with proper care
- Stand up to wear and corrosion
- Suitable for molars and stressed areas with high chewing forces
The downside of gold filling is the appearance and cost (higher than any other type of dental filling).
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are used more commonly for smaller cavities, particularly in children, and for fillings very close to the gum line. They’re made from a combination of acrylic and fluro-alumino-silicate, an ingredient that releases fluoride protecting the teeth.
Advantages:
- Release fluoride for additional cavity protection
- Sticks to the actual structure of the tooth, helping to avoid excessive drilling
- Best Use Area: sides with less chewing force
Though glass ionomer fillings are not as long-lasting as other types of fillings, they are a good option for temporary or low-stress uses.
FAQ:
How long does it take to fill a cavity?
Filling a cavity usually takes 20–60 minutes, depending on the cavity’s size, location, and the type of filling material used. procedures, like porcelain or gold fillings, can take several appointments.
How much does a cavity filling cost in Philadelphia?
Filling cavities in Philadelphia have different costs based on the type of material used. Composite fillings cost between $150 and $250 each, and porcelain and gold fillings between $500 and $1,500 or more. Contact us today to understand which is the best option for your budget and dental needs.
What is the best type of filling for a cavity?
Gold and porcelain fillings are best for molars, while composite resin fillings are great for cosmetic use in visible areas. Glass ionomer fillings are effective for small cavities or low-stress areas.
if you need advice on which dental filling will be best for you, Razavi Dental is here to help! our expert team offers individualized care to help you smile again! Make an appointment today to help you achieve a brighter smile.