Last Updated on: 2nd September 2024, 12:16 am
WHAT ARE DENTAL FILLINGS?
Dental fillings are substitute materials for the part of the tooth that was destroyed by dental caries or trauma. These fillings must restore the tooth’s functionality in order to be able to chew properly and at the same time they must resemble the color and shape of the tooth.
Menu
OUR REVIEWS
WHAT TYPES OF FILLINGS CAN WE FIND?
Nowadays we can find different types of dental fillings among them we have:
- Dental amalgams: The amalgams or also known as “Silver colored fillings” result from the combination of different metals being the main ones mercury, silver, tin and copper. Among the advantages of this material is its hardness and durability as well as the cost, but they have the disadvantage that the color they present by their metals do not return the aesthetics to the tooth. Giving it a gray or black appearance.
- Gold Fillings: They are one of the most expensive dental fillings because they have gold alloy and other metals but more compatible with tissues such as gum and tooth, is a material that has been used for many years ago because it has great durability, one of its disadvantages like the amalgam is the color they have because it decreases the aesthetics of the dental restoration.
- Composite Resins: Also known as Composites, it is the most used material nowadays due to its similarity with the color of the tooth, compared to amalgams, giving the tooth a natural appearance, they also present good hardness and resistance.
- Porcelain Dental Filling: This type of filling as well as gold fillings are expensive, but its benefits are its great similarity to the appearance of the tooth and its durability in the mouth.
Glass Ionomer Fillings: Its exclusive use is in children in milk teeth because its resistance is not very good, one of its advantages is that within its components has fluoride which helps protect teeth against carious lesions.
ARE DENTAL AMALGAMS HARMFUL?
Exploring Safety and Usage of Dental Amalgams: In response to concerns regarding the potential health hazards of dental amalgams, particularly due to mercury content, numerous research studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association have concluded that dental amalgams are safe. The American Dental Association (ADA) has reaffirmed their safety for use. However, the ADA also emphasizes the need to restrict their usage due to environmental pollution caused by amalgam decomposition.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends minimizing the use of dental amalgam whenever possible. Specifically, they advise against placing this type of dental filling in children under 6 years old, pregnant women, or those planning pregnancy, as well as individuals with neurological issues. If an amalgam filling is in good condition, the FDA suggests avoiding removal unless deemed necessary.
¿HOW CAN I TAKE CARE OF MY DENTAL FILLINGS?
Oral Care Based on Material and Routine: Oral care requirements often vary based on the filling material used, but the foundational practices encompass:
- Implement an effective brushing technique, brushing a minimum of three times daily, with a focus on nighttime brushing.
- Utilize fluoride toothpaste to safeguard teeth against cavities.
- Incorporate dental flossing and mouthwash into your routine with each brushing.
- Schedule biannual dental check-ups, and if any alterations in your dental filling are detected, a visit to the dentist becomes imperative.