Dental Fillings
Having been used for centuries to replace tooth structure lost to decay, dental fillings are one of the most commonly performed dental treatment across the world.
Dental fillings help to restore cavities and broken teeth. These fillings plug the holes in our teeth caused by decay and wear, ensuring teeth are healthy and can continue functioning without further decay or becoming a bigger issue.
There are several different types of dental fillings. Depending on the location of the restoration in your mouth, the extent of the repair, whether you have any allergies, and your budget, the best filling will be selected.
Composite or tooth colored fillings
These are most natural appearing fillings. They provide durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid sized and large restorations that withstand chewing pressure. These fillings directly stick to the teeth and do not need huge cavity drilling.
Glass ionomer fillings
These are tooth colored filling cements that come in limited shades. They easily bond with the tooth tissue and slowly release fluoride over time to help prevent decay under and around the filling. They are not recommended for load-bearing teeth as they can wear easily under biting pressure.
Inlays and onlays (porcelain)
They are custom made in the laboratory before being cemented into place. They work well in decay extending into gums as these are gum-friendly. Porcelain inlays are a popular choice due to their ability to match the color of natural teeth and are stain resistant.