Cavities can be painful and hard to deal with. What may start as a mild toothache can become very painful soon and affect your ability to eat, sleep and focus. If cavities are not treated at the right time, they can become a serious issue, from infection to even tooth loss.
It is important to address this issue as soon as possible, and with the advancement in dentistry, dealing with cavities has become easier. If you are having a toothache, then do not ignore the symptoms. Get professional help from any dentist in Pocket-Greenhaven, Sacramento as California some of the best dental service providers in the USA. They can help you diagnose the problem and give you proper treatment.
Meanwhile, read this article to learn about all types of fillings and understand them so that you can make the best choice for your dental needs.
What is a Cavity, and How is it Caused?
A cavity, also called dental caries or tooth decay, is a permanently damaged area on the hard surface of your teeth that develops into a small hole. These are mainly caused by plaque buildup on the tooth’s surface, which produces acid and damages the enamel.
The main reason for developing cavities is poor oral hygiene and bad food habits. Irregular brushing and now flossing teeth. Other factors can be a dry mouth and drinking acidic beverages like sodas and fruit juices.
To prevent cavities, you need to take proper care of your oral health. Also, use fluoride toothpaste and reduce sugar intake as much as possible. Regular dental checkup is a must, too.
Fillings and How They Help
Fillings are materials that are used to repair and restore the function and structure of decayed or damaged teeth. They protect the damaged area from bacteria and help prevent any infection. They also help relieve pain caused by decay.
If you are dealing with a cavity, your dentist may suggest you to get a filling. There are many fillings available depending on your needs and comfort.
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Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also called silver filings, have been used by dentists for a long time. It is mainly used because of its durability, as they are not damaged from pressure due to chewing. This makes it good for back teeth.
Amalgam fillings can be cost-effective, durable, and long-lasting for up to 15 years, but they have their downsides, such as they can easily be seen, which can make you uncomfortable. Amalgam fillings also need more tooth structure removal.
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Composite Fillings
These are made of resin material. They have gained popularity because their colour is similar to that of a tooth. This helps it to blend easily with other natural teeth. Also, these bond directly with the tooth, do not need removal of teeth and help preserve tooth structure.
They also have some cons, such as they are not as durable as amalgam fillings and can also get stained over time; these are expensive, too.
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Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are also called porcelain fillings, and they are both durable and similar in appearance to natural teeth; they also do not get stained easily. These filings are used for inlays and onlays, especially in larger cavities.
Ceramic fillings can offer a wide range of features, but they cost more than amalgam fillings and composite fillings.
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Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are not commonly used by everyone, but they are highly durable and are the most long-lasting filling material. These are resistant to any wear and tear, but they cost a lot. Also, you will have to visit your dentist multiple times for their placement.
Choosing the Right Filling
It is important for you to understand your needs and select the right filling for your dental health. Every filling has its own set of pros and cons. Amalgam can be cost-effective and durable, but it can easily be identified, whereas ceramic fillings can offer you a natural look and durability but at a higher cost. The choice is completely dependent on your needs as well as preferences.
Contact a Dentist Today!
If you or anyone in your family is dealing with cavities, do not delay. Schedule an appointment with a dentist and discuss the best treatment options to protect your teeth today.
