Types of Cavity Fillings: How to Choose the Best One for Your Teeth
Cavities are more common than you think, but the right treatment makes all the difference. With several filling options available, choosing the best one can feel confusing. This guide simplifies your decision by breaking down each type, helping you understand the pros, cons, and what suits your smile best. Discover what to ask your dentist before moving forward.
What Are Cavity Fillings and Why Are They Needed?
When tooth decay eats into the enamel and creates a hole, that’s a cavity. Left untreated, this hole grows, possibly reaching the nerve. That can lead to pain, infection, or even tooth loss.
Cavity fillings are materials dentists use to fill that space, stop decay, and restore the tooth’s function and shape. They prevent bacteria from entering the tooth again.
Every filling protects your smile, but not all fillings are the same.
Composite Fillings: The Most Aesthetic Choice
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and blend right in. Most people won’t even notice you’ve had work done. They’re made from a mix of resin and glass, bonded directly to your tooth.
Why do people choose composite?
- Matches the color of your natural teeth
- Good for front and back teeth
- Requires less removal of healthy tooth structure
- Easy to shape and polish
If you care about how your smile looks, especially when fixing front teeth, this is often the top choice.
If you’re searching for dental fillings near you, composite is likely what you’ll be offered first for its seamless finish.
Amalgam Fillings: The Traditional Metal Option
Used for over a century, amalgam fillings are a blend of metals including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. These fillings don’t look natural, but they are strong and hold up well under chewing force.
Why do some still choose amalgam?
- Very durable, especially for molars
- Cost-effective
- Quick to place
They’re often recommended for people who need a budget-friendly fix on teeth that aren’t visible.
Ceramic Fillings: Strong and Stain-Resistant
Ceramic, often made of porcelain, offers strength and aesthetics. These fillings resist staining better than composite and last longer in some cases.
What makes ceramic fillings appealing?
- Looks natural, like a composite
- Won’t stain easily
- Long-lasting with proper care
They can cost more, but for many patients, the balance of beauty and strength is worth it.
For anyone exploring high-quality dental fillings in St Petersburg, ceramic options are worth discussing with your provider.
Gold Fillings: Durable but Pricey
Gold fillings are incredibly durable. They can last 15 to 30 years, sometimes longer. But they come with a price tag and are very noticeable.
Gold fillings offer:
- Unmatched durability
- Great fit and finish by skilled dentists
- Less wear on opposing teeth
They require multiple visits and don’t blend in, so most people skip gold unless longevity is the biggest concern.
Glass Ionomer Fillings: Best for Kids and Temporary Fixes
Glass ionomer isn’t as strong as composite, but it has unique benefits. It releases fluoride, which helps safeguard the tooth from further decay.
Ideal uses for glass ionomer:
- Fillings for baby teeth
- Temporary restorations
- Non-load-bearing areas of the mouth
Because they wear down faster, they’re typically used in places where strength isn’t critical.
Key Factors to Consider When Picking a Filling
It’s not just about looks or cost. The best filling depends on your specific needs. Your dentist in St Petersburg can help you weigh both the pros and cons on the basis of your situation and preferences.
Talk with your dentist about:
- Location of the cavity – Front teeth? Go tooth-colored. Back molars? You might want strength.
- Size of the cavity – Larger cavities may need a stronger material.
- Budget – Some materials cost more but last longer.
- Aesthetic preference – Are you okay with a metal look? Or do you want something invisible?
Ask your provider to show you examples of different types. Sometimes, seeing is believing.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Getting a filling is a standard, straightforward dental procedure. Here’s what usually happens:
The process:
- Your dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia
- The decay is removed using special instruments
- The space is cleaned
- Filling material is added and shaped
- Your bite is checked and adjusted
Most fillings take about 30 to 60 minutes.
After the procedure:
- You might feel numb for a couple of hours
- Mild sensitivity is normal but fades
- Avoid sticky or hard foods for the very first 24 hours
Final Thoughts
Protecting your smile starts with making informed choices. Now that you know the options, take the next step toward healthier teeth. Schedule a visit with Dental Arts Ninth Street to discuss the best cavity filling for you. Your comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health matter—let’s get your smile the care it deserves. Book your appointment today.
