About this topic
Tooth decay is very common. Germs in your mouth combine with bits of food left on your teeth after eating to make acid. The acid can eat away at the protective enamel of the tooth and cause tooth decay. You can have decay on the tooth surface or the decay can move deep into the tooth, which can cause sensitivity and pain. ‚
General
Your dentist will recommend the best material for your filling. This is based on the size and location of your tooth decay. There are many choices for fillings. ‚
- Silver Fillings
- Also called dental amalgams
- Made from a mixture of metals, including mercury
- Are strong and last a long time
- Least expensive and are often completed in one office visit
- Tooth Colored Fillings
- Also called composite resin fillings
- Will be the same color as your tooth, so may be ideal for repair of tooth decay that is easy to see when a person smiles
- Placed on your tooth in layers and bonds to your tooth
- Are more expensive than silver fillings
- Gold Fillings
- Also called gold inlays or onlays
- Made from a mixture of metals, but look like yellow gold
- Most durable of all filling materials
- Are the most expensive and need at least 2 office visits to complete
- Porcelain Fillings
- Also known as ceramic fillings
- Will be the same color as your tooth
- Not as strong as composite resin and other material choices
- May be a more expensive option
- Glass Ionomer Fillings
- Many glass ionomers release fluoride into the tooth
- Will be the same color or close to the same color as your tooth
- Often used for tooth decay near the gums, small cavities, and on children
- Cost about the same as composite resin
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What will the results be?
Tooth decay will be removed and your tooth will be filled with a material that protects the tooth. Your tooth will never be as strong as it was before it had decay. Take extra care to protect your teeth from any more decay. ‚
Will there be any other care needed?
- Brush your teeth after every meal but at least 2 times a day. Do not rush when you brush. Spend 2 full minutes cleaning all of your teeth. Use a toothpaste with fluoride.
- Use dental floss to clean between your teeth at least every day.
- Try to stay away from foods and drinks that are high in sugar and starch, such as chocolate, sweets, cakes, and drinks that have sugar and acids.
- See your dentist for regular cleaning and checkups.
What problems could happen?
- Filling material may break or become loose
- Tooth may crack
- Further decay
- Sensitivity or pain as your mouth adjusts to new filling
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Tooth pain is getting worse
- Sensitivity is not improving
- If you are unable to chew on the tooth that was repaired
Where can I learn more?
Academy of General Dentistry ‚
http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=F&iid=286&aid=1242 ‚
http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=F&iid=286&aid=1241 ‚
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry ‚
http://www.aacd.com/index.php?module=cms&page=579 ‚
American Dental Association ‚
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/Dental-Filling-Options ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚