CAVITIES & FILLINGS choices

A silver amalgam filling is widely used as it is the least expensive filling option. The material is a combination of silver, tin, zinc, copper and mercury. Silver amalgam fillings can last up to 12 years. 

Silver amalgams are not an aesthetically pleasing solution, so patients don't like the look for visible teeth. Also, with temperature changes, like hot and cold, the filling/s can contract and expand, which can cause teeth to crack leading to the growth of bacteria and the formation of new cavities. 

Although some consider mercury in silver amalgam to be an issue, the material has been declared safe for use.

Composite fillings are a combination of plastic and resin. The material is placed inside the tooth while it is soft and hardened with a bright curing light. It is a the most popular option because the filling can be colorized to match the color of the patient’s existing teeth. Composite fillings have a life of up to five to 10 years, thus may need to be replaced at some time down the line.

Ceramic fillings are porcelain material, which makes them both durable and cosmetically appealing. While they may cost a bit more than other fillings, they also are tooth-colored and resist stains and abrasion better than composite resin.

However, the ceramic material is more brittle and usually has to be used on larger cavities to prevent breakage. When required or requested, we can enlarge the receiving area.

Glass ionomer fillings are made from a mixture of glass and acrylic and are usually used for children whose teeth are still forming. They contain fluoride which is released into the tooth to prevent additional decay. They are contraindicated for long-term use as they are weaker than composite fillings and tend to crack or wear out. Neither are they as natural looking as composite or ceramic fillings.