Juno Beach Office:
Finding the Right Dental Restoration for Your Smile
Traditional dental fillings are typically made from silver amalgam, a material known for its strength and durability. This makes it ideal for restoring teeth that endure heavy chewing forces, especially in the back of the mouth.
Modern dental fillings, such as ceramic or composite resins, are designed to closely match the color of natural teeth. These tooth-colored materials are often preferred for front teeth, where aesthetics matter most, but they can also be used on back teeth depending on the location and severity of the decay.
Which filling is right for me?
Several elements can impact how well your dental restorations perform, how long they last, and their cost, including:
- The type of material used in the filling
- The amount of remaining natural tooth structure
- The location of the tooth and how the filling is placed
- The chewing forces the tooth will need to withstand
- The number of visits and time required to prepare and adjust the restoration
Before starting your treatment, we’ll review all your options and help you select the most suitable filling for your needs. To prepare for this conversation, it’s useful to know the two main types of dental fillings: direct and indirect.
- Direct fillings are completed in a single visit. These include silver amalgam, glass ionomer, resin-modified glass ionomer, and composite (resin) fillings. The dentist prepares the tooth, places the filling, and makes any necessary adjustments all in one appointment.
- Indirect fillings usually require two or more visits. Options include inlays, onlays, and veneers made from gold, base metal alloys, ceramics, or composites. They are ideal for teeth that are too damaged for a simple filling but don’t need a full crown. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth, takes an impression, and places a temporary covering. The impression is sent to a dental lab to create the restoration. At the following visit, the dentist cements the restoration in place and adjusts it for proper fit and comfort.