Different types of fillings for teeth:

Different types of fillings for teeth:

Dentistry is full of definitions. We all are aware of fillings in teeth but are we aware of what they are called. This article is to try and make things clearer. Below is a list of the types of dental fillings and what they may be made of and when they may be used:

Amalgam fillings – this is a traditional metal filling which is a complex alloy containing silver, tin, copper and mercury. They are used to filling small to medium sized holes in teeth.

Composite fillings – these are tooth colored resin filling materials that bond to the tooth structure. They come in a variety of shades so that can closely match the natural shade of your teeth. The again are used to fill small to medium sized holes in teeth.

Inlays – These are laboratory made fillings. Your dentist will cut a cavity design in your tooth and take an impression or mould of the cavity. The lab technician will then fabricate your filling to exactly fit the cavity and sit perfectly against the adjacent teeth so it is the ideal fit. They can large medium to large cavities in teeth and are made of either composite resin, ceramics or gold.

Glass Ionomer Fillings – These are often used a temporary fillings. They are another type of resin filling material that bond to teeth. They are again tooth colored but not as aesthetic as composite, nor as strong.

Onlay – This is similar to an inlay but also covers some or all of the cusps of teeth in order to protect them. They are more conservative option to having a full crown. They will be made of either gold, composite or ceramics.

David Hurst BDS (Lon)