Dental fillings are used to repair a broken or cracked tooth. The dentist san jose removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the area with different materials.

Dental fillings restore the function of the missing tooth structure caused by external trauma. They are artificial substances used to fill the gap in the enamel of the decayed tooth.

The materials used for dental fillings have changed over the years. The following are some of the materials used to fill the decayed teeth:

Amalgam Fillings

They are silver-colored fillings. These fillings are an amalgam of mercury, tin, zinc, copper, and silver alloy. They are long-lasting and hard-wearing fillings. They are strong and durable fillings, lasting for at least 10 to 15 years, and are economical. Amalgam fillings can withstand chewing forces and are usually placed on the back chewing teeth.

Composite Fillings

Though they are strong, composite fillings are not as hard as amalgam fillings. Their color matches that of the existing teeth. They work well for the front teeth and the evident part of the teeth. Made of resin and plastic, they are quite expensive. Some patients replace them every 5 years.

Cast-Gold Fillings

The cost of gold fillings is 10 times higher than the cost of silver amalgams. They last for periods of 15 years or longer. They can withstand chewing forces and do not tarnish. The gold filling has great strength and is made in the laboratory. Some patients find it more pleasing than silver amalgams.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

These fillings release fluoride and form a chemical link with the tooth. It helps to prevent tooth decay. Because glass ionomer fillings are fairly weak, they are only used on baby teeth and non-biting surfaces. Made of acrylic and specific types of glass material, the filling is more susceptible to wear and prone to fractures.

Ceramic Fillings

These filings are mostly made of porcelain and last for more than 15 years. They are more invulnerable to staining than composite resin material. The color of ceramic fillings can be made to that of your tooth.

The dentists at Galan DNTL teach their patients the different types of filling materials and help them choose the appropriate one. Head over to 1706 Hamilton Ave, San Jose, CA 95125 to have your fillings done. Contact dentist san jose at (408) 377-8200 or visit our website for appointments and clarifications.