Learn about the different types of dental fillings available, from composite resin fillings to porcelain, along with their pros and cons, to help you choose the one that’s best for you.
Healthy teeth are the key to a beautiful smile and optimal oral function. However, cavities or damaged teeth can be a disturbing problem, both in terms of aesthetics and comfort.
One of the most common solutions to this problem is to fill the damaged tooth. However, the right type of dental filling depends on a variety of factors, such as functional needs, aesthetics, and also cost.
In this guide, we will discuss the different types of dental fillings you can choose from, along with their pros and cons.
1. Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings are one of the most widely used types of dental fillings. These fillings are made from a mixture of resin and glass powder, which is inserted into the tooth cavity in a soft state. After that, this material is exposed to a special light to harden and adjust to the shape of the tooth cavity.
Composite resin Tooth Filling is known for its similarity to the color of natural teeth, making it ideal for front teeth or teeth that are visible when speaking and smiling. This type of Tooth Filling is the best aesthetic choice because of its nearly invisible color.
Although they look natural, composite resin fillings are not as strong as other fillings, such as amalgam or gold. Its durability ranges from 5 to 10 years, so it requires periodic replacement. In addition, the price of composite fillings is relatively more expensive compared to other fillings.
2. Silver Fillings (Amalgam)
Amalgam fillings are dental fillings made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. This filling is quite popular among patients who need fillings on their back teeth, which are not very visible.
Amalgam fillings are known for their incredible durability, lasting up to 12 years or more. These fillings are also easier to install and more durable even under high pressure, making them a great choice for back teeth.
Although strong and economical, amalgam fillings have a dark color that is not suitable for front teeth. In addition, the use of mercury in amalgam raises several health and environmental concerns. In Indonesia, the use of amalgam has also been banned since 2018 due to its dangerous mercury content.
3. Gold Patch
Gold fillings are made from a mixture of gold with other metals such as silver, palladium, and copper. These fillings are known for their incredible strength and durability, even lasting more than 15 years.
The main advantages of gold fillings are their excellent strength and resistance to corrosion. Additionally, gold is a non-reactive material, which makes it safe to use in the oral cavity. Gold fillings are also very durable and retain their shape even after years of use.
Their high cost and limited use on back teeth make gold fillings not ideal for patients who prioritize aesthetics. These fillings are usually better suited for back teeth that are not visible.
4. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC)
GIC fillings are made from a mixture of acrylic and glass materials which have the advantage of being able to release fluoride. This fluoride content helps prevent caries and protects teeth that have not been damaged.
GIC has the ability to match the color of natural teeth, making it a more aesthetic option than amalgam fillings. Additionally, due to its ability to release fluoride, GIC is very useful for preventing the formation of new caries in undamaged teeth.
GICs are weaker than other fillings, and their durability only lasts a few years. This filling is more suitable for children’s dental fillings or as a temporary filling on adult teeth.
GICs are not suitable for teeth that are exposed to a lot of pressure, such as back teeth that are often used for chewing.
5. Porcelain (Ceramic) Fillings
Porcelain or ceramic fillings are made of ceramic material that closely matches the color of natural teeth. They are the best choice for those who want a very natural-looking tooth, especially for the more visible front teeth.
Ceramic fillings are very aesthetic because their color is almost indistinguishable from natural teeth. In addition, porcelain is very durable and does not stain easily. These fillings are also stronger than GICs, although they are still more brittle than composite fillings.
Porcelain fillings tend to be very expensive. These fillings are also more likely to crack or break if exposed to very high pressure. Therefore, porcelain fillings are usually only used on front teeth that are not exposed to much pressure when chewing food.
6. Glass Ionomer Modified Resin Fillings
Resin modified glass ionomer (RMGI) fillings are a mixture of resin and glass ionomer. This material combines the advantages of both materials: the ability of resin to provide greater durability and the ability of glass ionomer to release fluoride.
RMGI offers additional benefits such as protection against caries and preventing further cavity formation. In addition, RMGI is also suitable for use on teeth that are not exposed to much pressure, such as front teeth.
Although better than glass ionomer, RMGI is still weaker than composite resin or porcelain. Its durability is also limited to a few years.
Choosing the right type of dental filling depends on many factors, such as the position of the damaged tooth, aesthetic goals, and available budget.
Composite resin fillings are the best choice if you want aesthetics and resemblance to natural teeth, while amalgam and gold fillings offer better durability. Porcelain fillings, on the other hand, provide the best aesthetic solution at a higher cost.
To find the best option, it is highly recommended to consult your dentist. He or she will help assess the condition of your teeth and provide appropriate recommendations based on your functional and aesthetic needs.
If you are considering Dental Braces, your dentist may also evaluate whether any fillings or other treatments are necessary before starting orthodontic care.
By understanding the different types of dental fillings available, you can make a more informed decision to care for your dental and oral health.