After your dentist suggests a filling for one of your teeth, you will find yourself facing several options for different types of dental fillings, and you won't know which one to choose. For this reason, we will explain these fillings in detail, with their different types, as well as the differences between them. We will clarify the advantages and disadvantages of each one, so follow us to the end to learn about them.
What are dental fillings?
These are fillings used to treat decay, and different types of fillings can be used. However, the main classification of these fillings is direct fillings and indirect dental fillings, in addition to temporary fillings as standalone fillings.
Learn more about Dental filling procedure, its disadvantages, and advantages
Types of direct dental fillings
These are fillings that are placed in a single session or those that do not require laboratory-prepared fillings, as they are placed directly in the mouth. The most common types are:
Amalgam filling (silver filling)
This is a filling placed using silver. It is a silver-colored filling that resembles silver and was named this because it is actually made from a mixture of silver and copper metal, and tin metal can also be added. This filling has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of amalgam filling
- It lasts for long periods without falling out, as it can remain in the mouth for periods up to 15 or 20 years.
- It is characterized by its strength and hardness, making it effective when chewing forcefully.
- Its cost is lower than some other types.
Disadvantages of amalgam filling
- It does not match the color of the teeth and is clearly visible.
- It requires the removal of other parts of the tooth to be placed, as it needs large spaces inside the molar to be secured.
- It affects the color of the molar because it makes the surrounding areas appear grayish.
- It increases the chances of the molar fracturing because it expands with cold and heat.
- The possibility of an allergic reaction to it due to its mercury content.
Composite filling (resin)
Also known as a white filling because it matches the natural tooth color and looks natural. It is made of resin material to be bonded inside the tooth.
Advantages of resin filling
- Its color is similar to the natural molar color.
- It does not affect the tooth structure.
Disadvantages of resin filling
- Shorter lifespan.
- Requires a long time to place compared to other fillings.
- Requires more than one visit to the dentist.
Glass ionomer filling
This is one type of dental filling made from ground silica glass to be similar to the molar color, and it can also be made from acrylic.
Advantages of ionomer filling
- Suitable for children.
- Helps protect teeth from decay.
Disadvantages of ionomer filling
- Considered a weak filling.
- Prone to falling out.
- High cost compared to other fillings.
And now that you have learned about the types of direct fillings, here are the indirect types.
Types of indirect dental fillings
These fillings are called indirect fillings because they are done in two stages, where the Permanent Filling which will be placed in the lab, where the dentist takes measurements to prepare them using computer equipment known as the CAD system. .
These are fillings resorted to when the tooth structure is not suitable for placing one of the direct fillings and cannot withstand it, but at the same time, it has not reached the stage that requires crown placement, and it is one of the fillings that are done in two sessions: one in which the tooth is cleaned and existing problems are removed, along with taking measurements and placing a temporary filling, and the second session involves placing the permanent filling that was prepared in the lab. The most common types of indirect dental fillings are:
Ceramic filling
It is a type of dental filling manufactured to be resistant to tooth discoloration compared to white fillings. It lasts for a long time, but it is expensive, which is one of its most prominent drawbacks.
Porcelain Filling
These fillings are known for their tooth-like color. They are permanent and strong fillings that last for long periods and require two sessions, as they are manufactured in the lab.
Gold Filling
This is a gold-colored filling primarily manufactured for its strength. However, it is not made entirely of gold; other metals are added to it, especially copper, silver, tin, and palladium.
These fillings fall under inlays and onlays, which are the two main types of indirect fillings and can be defined as follows:
Inlays
These are fillings where the work is limited to the cusps between the teeth or on the outer surface of the molar, which is used for chewing.
Onlays
These are types of fillings that extend deeper to cover more layers and cusps, so they can be called partial crowns.
Temporary Dental Fillings
This is a filling placed inside the teeth for specific reasons and circumstances, and as its name suggests, it is placed for temporary periods only, for the following reasons:
- To preserve the molar after root canal treatment and prepare for the filling process, to help reduce inflammation.
- A filling to protect the teeth if a second appointment is scheduled for a permanent filling, especially before gold fillings and indirect fillings.
- In emergency cases where other dental procedures are performed, these fillings have a short lifespan and cannot last more than a month.
Dental Filling Prices
Are you wondering about the cost of a dental filling? In fact, the price of a filling varies depending on its type, the materials used, and the dentist's clinic. However, we can indicate that dental filling prices in Saudi Arabia start from 94 SAR and can go up to 17,000 SAR. Prices may vary from one place to another and based on several other factors as mentioned.
Remember that dental filling types vary in quality and strength, and the choice of the appropriate filling type is determined based on your condition, as well as your budget. If you wish to have a dental filling, you should choose a specialized clinic, and for this reason, we recommend choosing L'ORO Clinic, where we offer a variety of options that you can choose from with the best materials and equipment. Book your appointment now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best dental fillings?
The type of filling varies depending on the case. For large cavities, ceramic and amalgam fillings are suitable, while composite fillings are suitable for mild cavities. Therefore, the best filling depends on your condition.
How to fill teeth at home?
You cannot fill teeth at home; you must visit a dentist's clinic to get a suitable filling that matches your condition.
What is the difference between a regular filling and a root canal filling?
A regular filling is done to eliminate decay that has not reached the pulp of the tooth and has not affected the nerve canal, while Root canal treatment It is performed when the molar is severely inflamed and the decay reaches the inner pulp and roots.
What is the difference between a regular dental filling and a laser filling?
Regular fillings rely on metals or porcelain material, while laser filling is a composite filling, which relies on the use of light to set the filling.
How many sessions does a dental filling require?
The number of sessions varies depending on the type of filling. Traditional fillings require one session, while indirect fillings require two sessions.
What is the healthiest filling for tooth decay?
Ionomer filling is the filling that contains fluoride, and therefore it may help prevent decay and protect the tooth.
Can a dental filling last forever?
Dental fillings can last for long periods, up to 20 years, if oral hygiene instructions are followed to maintain the teeth.