07/20/2016 15:08
Do you have a cavity? Did you know that you have a choice when it comes to your dental filling? Dental fillings can be made from a variety of materials, and each has advantages and disadvantages over the others. Which one is chosen comes down to the location of the cavity, budget and personal preferences.
Composite Resin
Composite fillings can be matched to the color of the teeth, making them ideal for visible parts of teeth. They can absorb stains over time though from things like coffee, tea and red wine. They are also less durable than the other filling materials, and are more prone to chips and cracks.
Porcelain
Porcelain fillings are matched to the color of the teeth. They are resistant to stains, and are extremely strong and durable, lasting 15 years or longer. They are more expensive than composite fillings though.
Gold
Some patients like the look of a gold filling. These are strong and durable, lasting 10 to 15 years or more. The downside is their cost. They are the most expensive filling material.
Silver Amalgam
People normally choose silver fillings for their low cost compared to other materials. They are durable, able to last 10 to 15 years or more. Unfortunately they are very visible. For this reason, you may not want them in visible areas of your teeth.
Our West Hollywood dentist has experience with all of these filling materials. Call our office for an appointment to discuss which one is right for you.
