Types Of Fillings Used

There are a variety of materials used for fillings because no single type of material will work best for situation or desired appearance. The type of dental filling used is also determined by the extent of the repair that needs to be done on the tooth. In addition to that, the location of the tooth in the mouth where the filling is going to be placed; a patient’s allergies to certain materials; and the overall cost of the treatment are also taken into consideration.

1. Gold fillings – These are made to order and are cemented onto teeth. Because they are well tolerated by gum tissues and are very durable, lasting for more than 20 years, a lot of authorities consider gold as the best filling material.
2. Silver or amalgam fillings – These are less expensive than gold fillings but are very resistant to wear. But, because of their dark color, they are far more noticeable than composite or porcelain fillings, which is why they aren’t used in visible areas such as the front teeth.
3. Porcelain fillings – These are also called onlays or inlays and are also custom made to order in a laboratory just like gold fillings. They are bonded onto the tooth and can be color matched. Plus, they can also resist staining. Porcelain fillings are often used to cover all or most of the tooth. (See: Crowns)
4. Composite (tooth colored) resins – These are best suited for treatments where a natural appearance is necessary such as the front teeth because they can be matched to have the same color as your teeth. They are mixed and applied directly onto the cavity where they are chemically or UV hardened.

Part of the job of any good family dentist in Humble is educate you on what you can do for yourself and your family to avoid getting a cavity in the first place. Cavities happen. It’s a fact of life and for some, you’re going to get them no matter how good you are with a toothbrush and dental floss.

All too often however, people will put off getting a cavity filled because they “just don’t like the pain.” With Dr. Goel, you don’t have to worry about “suffering through” a filling. Dr. Avni Goel, DDS has many different ways to fill a cavity that will not be a “pain” to endure… Including sedation!

Having regular dental checkups is the number one way to avoid a painful cavity. If you have not had one in a while or if you have a tooth that is painful when you breathe over it just right or drink something hot or cold, that’s not normal! Call to setup an appointment with Dr. Goel today. You can also setup your appointment with our “Schedule an Appointment” app on the right side of this page.