If the dentist has recommended that you get fillings done for one or more of your teeth, you'll probably have some questions for them. One of these inquiries will almost certainly be how long the filling will last after the procedure. The answer to that entirely depends on what type of material you choose for a dental filling. Here are some of the most popular choices that most people are presented with.
Amalgam
More commonly known as "silver fillings," many more metals are involved than strictly silver. They have been used for well over 100 years and are known to be the most durable material that a dentist can typically use. One recent study showed the average age of an amalgam filling at the time of replacement to be 15 years. However, there has also been anecdotal evidence showing that with extremely cautious care, they can last as long as 45 years.
Composite
These fillings are crafted from a combination of ceramic and acrylic and are very popular among patients because they can generally be matched to your natural tooth color. This means the filling will not stand out when you smile or open your mouth. An experienced cosmetic dentist will most likely recommend this to you when it comes to getting a filling.
Gold
While this is the most durable material used for fillings, it is also by far the most expensive, which is why it is not used often. Most insurance plans will not cover a gold dental filling option, so dentists do not typically use it. Most patients who desire a gold filling will have to pay for it out of their pocket.
Ceramic & Glass
These two materials are rarely used in dental fillings simply because of their impracticality. However, they are still an option. The first is ceramic, which is even more costly than gold and must be specially made by a lab with a mill capable of forming the filling. It is then glued into the cavity after it has been cleaned out. The second is glass, which is very fragile and only lasts a handful of years. These are typically useful only in the cases of small cavities located near the gumline.
If you need to get fillings for your teeth, then a compassionate and experienced cosmetic dentist is undoubtedly who you will need. Please get in touch with the fine staff at Short Pump Dental, and they can make an appointment with you and discuss what your best options are. You'll have a nice-looking dental filling that will last years.