Dental fillings heal the damage caused by cavities, prevent further decay from taking place, and help you restore your teeth’s structure and strength.
These fillings are placed directly into your tooth after the decay is cleaned out. There are a number of materials that can be used.
AMALGAM FILLINGS
These fillings are sometimes called “silver” fillings and are predominately used to fill cavities in molars.
PROS
- These are the least expensive type of filling.
- They last a long time.
- They are easy to put in place.
- They are direct fillings, so they can usually be done in 1 appointment.
CONS
- The silver color may not appeal to people who want a “natural” look.
- Tiny amounts of mercury vapor are released from the filling when you chew.
Health Canada concludes that although amalgam contributes detectable amounts of mercury to the body, these levels do not cause illness.
COMPOSITE FILLINGS
Also called plastic or white fillings are predominately used for visible areas in your mouth. Evolving properties of this material allow them to be placed in the molar teeth as well.
PROS
- These fillings will be the same color as your natural teeth.
- They are direct fillings, so they can be done in 1 appointment.
CONS
- These fillings are not as dependable as amalgam or gold fillings.
- Recurrent decay is more of a problem than with amalgam or gold fillings.
GOLD FILLINGS
These fillings are a made of gold and other metals to make the gold more durable. Pure gold is too soft and would wear away.
PROS
- Gold is stronger than amalgam.
- Gold fillings last a long time.
- Many studies show these are the best fillings for durability and wear over many years.
CONS
- Gold costs more than other kinds of fillings.
- Gold fillings are indirect fillings, so they take at least 2 appointments.
- The gold color may not appeal to people who want a natural look.
Source: Canadian Dental Association (CDA)
