Dental Fillings in Katy, TX
Dental fillings are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. At Caspian Dental Center, dental fillings can be made from a variety of different compounds, including composite resin, porcelain, and dental amalgam. Each of these materials offers unique advantages and disadvantages.
Types of Dental Fillings
Silver Fillings
Amalgam fillings, more commonly known as silver fillings, are made from a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They are known for their strength and durability, making them popular for restoring molars. However, many patients are concerned about the potential toxicity of mercury, a metal that is found in amalgam fillings.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are tooth-colored fillings made of gold alloy. Gold fillings are popular because they somehow resemble your natural tooth color. However, they are not recommended for teeth that are visible when smiling. On the other hand, gold fillings are a good choice for people who clench or grind their teeth.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored restorations that can greatly improve the appearance of a tooth. They are sometimes referred to as “bonding” or “direct” fillings because the material bonds directly to the tooth. Composite resin fillings are a more aesthetically pleasing option than silver amalgam fillings (metal fillings), as they blend in better with the natural tooth.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings, also known as inlays and onlays, are dental restorations used to repair teeth that have mild to moderate decay. Porcelain fillings are often used when there isn’t enough of the tooth remaining to hold a filling, requiring a dental crown instead. They are also used when patients have allergies to metal alloys, which are found in most other types of fillings.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are one of the least expensive and most beneficial types of dental fillings. Made of glass powder and acrylic resin, these dental fillings are durable and long-lasting. They are particularly beneficial for small gaps between teeth.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
There are many benefits to getting dental fillings. Some of them are: Protection
A dental filling provides a protective barrier against infection. When a tooth is cracked, decayed, or worn down, bacteria can enter the tooth, causing an infection. Left untreated, this infection can spread to other areas of the mouth. A dental filling can prevent this from occurring.
Treatment for Tooth Decay
Dentists use fillings to treat tooth decay. Once a cavity forms, bacteria can seep in and cause more decay. By covering the hole with a filling, bacteria cannot enter the tooth and cause further decay.
Treatment of Hypersensitivity
Dental fillings can help correct both cavities and teeth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is often caused by dental cavities. Bacteria form cavities in a weakened tooth, which causes pain. Fillings seal the cavity to prevent further bacteria from growing and causing pain.
Treatment of Dental Abscess
Decay and cavities often cause toothaches. The decay or bacteria can infect the dentin below the enamel. Additionally, plaque and tartar can seep into the dentin, causing an infection. When the infection enters the roots of the tooth, an abscess can form.
Get in touch with Caspian Dental Center at 410 Park Grove Dr., Katy, TX 77450, or call (832) 321-4901 to learn more about the benefits of dental fillings.
