A tooth filling is a dental procedure in which a dentist removes decay from a tooth and fills the area with a material, such as an amalgam (a mixture of metals) or composite resin, to restore the tooth’s shape and function. The goal of a filling is to prevent further decay and restore the tooth to its normal function. Fillings are a common dental procedure and are relatively quick and painless. Your dentist will numb the area around the tooth before the procedure, so you should feel little to no pain during the filling.
White filling
A composite resin tooth filling is a type of dental filling that uses a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. The material, which is tooth-colored, is applied in layers and hardened with a special light. This type of filling is often used to repair front teeth or teeth that are visible when smiling because it can be closely matched to the color of the natural tooth.
Composite resin fillings have a few benefits over traditional metal fillings. For one, they blend in more naturally with the tooth, making them less visible. Additionally, they bond to the tooth structure and can help to strengthen a damaged tooth. They also require less removal of healthy tooth structure than traditional metal fillings. On the other hand, composite fillings may not last as long as metal fillings and may require more frequent replacement. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best type of filling for your individual needs.
White filling Advantages
White fillings, also known as composite fillings, have several advantages over traditional dental amalgam fillings:
- Aesthetics: Composite fillings are tooth-colored and match to the color of the natural tooth, making them less noticeable than traditional silver amalgam fillings.
- Bonding: Composite fillings can bond to the tooth structure, which can help to strengthen the tooth and reduce the risk of tooth fracture.
- Preservation of tooth structure: Because composite fillings can be bonded to the tooth, less tooth structure needs to be removed compared to amalgam fillings, which can preserve more of the natural tooth.
- Versatility: Composite fillings can be used for both front and back teeth and can be used to repair chipped, broken, or decayed teeth.
- No mercury content: Composite fillings do not contain mercury, which eliminates any concerns about the potential health risks associated with the mercury component of amalgam fillings.
- Can be used for tooth-colored restorations: such as inlays, onlays, and veneers.
- Suitable for people with metal allergies: Composite fillings are suitable for people with metal allergies or for people who are concerned about the mercury content of amalgam fillings.
White filling Disadvantages
- Durability: Composite fillings are not as durable as amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced sooner. They can wear down over time and may need to be replaced after five to ten years.
- Cost: Composite fillings are generally more expensive than amalgam fillings.
- Placement: Composite fillings require a dry field and a skilled dentist to place them correctly, this can make the procedure more time-consuming and difficult than placing an amalgam filling.
- Sensitivity: Composite fillings can cause sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, especially in the first few weeks after placement.
- Shrinking: Composite fillings may shrink over time, which can lead to tooth cracking or leakage.
- Staining: Composite fillings can become stained over time, especially if patients consume staining substances such as coffee, tea, or tobacco.
- Not recommended for larger cavities: Composite fillings are not recommended for larger cavities because they are not as strong as amalgam fillings and may not provide enough support for the tooth.
Amalgam Filling
An amalgam filling is a type of dental filling made from a mixture of metals, typically made up of liquid mercury and a powdered alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper. The mixture is placed into the prepared tooth, where it hardens to form a durable filling. Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are still commonly used today due to their durability and low cost. However, some concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with the mercury component of amalgam fillings.
Dental amalgam controversy
The dental amalgam controversy is the ongoing debate over the safety and potential health risks associated with the use of dental amalgam fillings. Dental amalgam is a mixture of liquid mercury and a powdered alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper. Some studies have suggested that the mercury in dental amalgam fillings may be released in small amounts over time and inhaled, potentially leading to health problems such as neurological damage and kidney damage.
However, the majority of scientific research and leading health organizations, including the World Health Organization, the American Dental Association, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, have stated that dental amalgam is a safe and effective filling material. They argue that the amount of mercury released from dental amalgam is small and not harmful to human health.
Despite these conclusions, some individuals and groups continue to argue that the potential health risks associated with dental amalgam outweigh its benefits, and advocate for the use of alternative filling materials such as composite resin or ceramic. Patients with mercury allergies, pregnant or lactating women or patients who might have high level of exposure to mercury may also prefer alternatives.
Ultimately, it’s up to the patient and their dentist to decide which type of filling is the best option for them, taking into consideration their specific needs and concerns.
Dental Amalgam Advantages
Dental amalgam has several advantages as a filling material:
- Durability: Amalgam fillings are very durable and can last for many years. They can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing and are less likely to chip or break than other types of fillings.
- Cost-effective: Amalgam fillings are generally less expensive than other types of fillings. They are a cost-effective option for patients who need multiple fillings or who have limited resources.
- Easy to use: Amalgam is a relatively easy material to work with, it can be shaped and packed into the tooth easily.
- Good for larger cavities: Amalgam is a good option for larger cavities, as it can be molded to fill the entire cavity, providing a strong and stable filling.
- Good for back teeth: Amalgam is often used for filling cavities in the back teeth, which are used for chewing, because of its durability and ability to withstand biting and chewing forces.
- Good for patients with dry mouth: Amalgam is a good option for patients with dry mouth because it is less sensitive to moisture than other types of fillings.
Dental Amalgam Disadvantages
- Appearance: Amalgam fillings are silver in color and can be noticeable, particularly in front teeth. They may not match the color of the natural tooth, which can be a cosmetic concern for some patients.
- Mercury content: Amalgam fillings contain a small amount of mercury, which can be released over time. Some studies have suggested that the mercury in dental amalgam fillings may be released in small amounts over time and inhaled, potentially leading to health problems such as neurological damage and kidney damage.
- Expansion and contraction: Amalgam fillings may expand and contract with temperature changes, which can lead to tooth cracking or leakage over time.
- Removal: Amalgam fillings can be difficult to remove, as they are hard and brittle. This can make it difficult for dentists to remove them without damaging the tooth.
- Sensitivity: Amalgam fillings can cause sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, especially in the first few weeks after placement.
- Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with mercury allergies: Due to the mercury content, amalgam fillings are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with known mercury allergies.
Price
White Filling
800
Baht /side
