What are the 3 most common types of filling?

traditional silver amalgam, tooth-colored composite, and porcelain are the 3 types of dental filling. Each type has its advantages and Disadvantages.

Composite fillings

Composite fillings are one mercury-free type of dental filling material used to repair minor damage to teeth, such as cavities or chipped teeth. They are made from a mixture of plastic and glass materials, giving them strength and a natural-looking appearance. 

Traditional silver amalgam

Amalgam fillings have different metals, like silver and tin, plus up to 50% mercury. Some people don’t like how they look, and there are worries about possible health risks from the mercury. That’s why alternatives, like mercury-free fillings, have been made.

Porcelain/Ceramic

Ceramic fillings, which don’t contain mercury, are made using high-tech methods like CAD/CAM. These fillings are durable and look nice, but they cost more than amalgam and composite fillings.

Composite fillings are completely nontoxic

Composite fillings are mercury-free and made from glass and resin, a non-toxic material. Composite materials for dental fillings are bonded to the teeth using a risk-free light cure or self-cure bonding mechanism to reshape tooth structure, close gaps, and correct chips in teeth.

Which is better, porcelain or composite fillings?

Porcelain fillings are highly durable and stain-resistant and provide a beautiful, strong smile if the damaged tooth part is significant. But, composite fillings require conservative preparation, preserving more of the natural tooth structure. If longevity is important, porcelain fillings are ideal; if a flawlessly natural appearance is Required and only a tiny portion of the tooth is to be filled, composite fillings are a good choice.

Inlays and Onlays

An inlay is a custom-made dental filling used to replace a damaged portion of a tooth. The inlay is crafted to fit perfectly into the space, providing a smooth and natural-looking solution. 

In contrast, an onlay is similar to an inlay but covers a larger portion of the tooth, including the cusps (the raised areas on the biting surface of a tooth).

Inlays and onlays restore the appearance and function of damaged or decayed teeth. These therapeutic options are made from strong and durable materials and can last many years with proper care. 

Porcelain Inlays and onlays are an aesthetically pleasing solution, as they can be color-matched to your existing teeth for a natural-looking smile. Unlike traditional metal fillings, inlays and onlays are minimally invasive, preserving more of your natural tooth structure and not containing any metal in your mouth.

Replacing Metal Fillings

When updating old metal fillings, choosing between composite and porcelain is crucial for dental health. Razavi Dental specializes in recommending and applying porcelain fillings, strengthening teeth and preventing potential issues caused by thermal expansion and contraction of amalgam fillings.

Composite fillings

Tooth-colored fillings offer good durability and fracture resistance in small- to mid-size fillings that must withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be applied to either the front or back teeth. They are a good option for people who want their fillings to look more natural.

What is the problem with composite filling?

With improper oral hygiene, composite fillings are not as durable as amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced more regularly.