Tooth decay, or a cavity, is a common dental problem. If not treated promptly, the tooth can crumble, become infected, or even require extraction. A severe infection can spread to the blood and may be life-threatening.
A dental filling will return the tooth to its normal state. The right type of dental fillings depends on the patient’s budget or insurance and the amount of damage. It’s important to find a dentist you trust and provides quality work. This ensures a comfortable experience and avoids costly filling failures.
Which Types of Dental Fillings Are Right for You?
You have plenty of choices for fillings. You can decide which types of fillings make your wallet happy and provide the look you want.
Porcelain: Long-lasting and natural-looking porcelain fillings can last 15 years. They’re more fragile than gold but aren’t noticeable. They are expensive but look like your own teeth.
Composite: These fillings can be color-matched, so they are great for the front teeth. They chemically bond to enamel and are strong but can chip. You may need multiple office visits.
Gold: Gold is strong, lasting up to 15 years. They are the most expensive option, but many people prefer gold over silver. They require multiple visits to complete the filling process.
Silver amalgam: Silver is the most cost-effective. It’s solid and perfect for molars. It expands and contracts, so it may crack. If you’ve heard silver fillings are dangerous, you can rest easy. Plenty of studies have shown amalgam to be safe. Although some prefer the appearance of composite, many people like inexpensive silver for molars.
Resin: Resin is delicate and wears off. It’s used on children because primary teeth fall out. Since resin doesn’t last very long, it’s not a good choice for permanent teeth.
What to Expect at the Dentist
The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. It only affects the specific location and will not make you sleepy, so you’re safe to drive once you’re finished.
After the anesthetic, a drill will remove the decaying area, leaving only healthy tooth behind. A dentist only drills as much as needed to clean and shape the site, and you won’t feel any pain. They then layer the filling material into the tooth. If it’s a composite filling, they might harden it with a special light.
Prevention and Cost-Savings
The best way to prevent cavities is to avoid excess sugar, brush your teeth twice daily, and floss between your teeth nightly.
The best cost savings come from keeping regular dentist appointments for cleanings and inspection. If caught early, a small filling will cost less than a large one, no matter which types of dental fillings you prefer. Keeping teeth healthy is always cheaper than fixing problems. Keep your smile in perfect condition, and call Nimmi Shine Dental for your routine checkup today at (858) 999-8550.