What Are Different Types of Dental Fillings, Their Cost & Advantages?
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a type of restorative procedure that is used to treat cavities and repair damaged teeth. The decayed material is removed during the procedure, and the cavity is filled with suitable filling material, such as amalgam or composite resin. Getting dental fillings in the teeth improves dental health and prevents further decay and damage.
What are the Different Types of Dental Fillings?
Some of the different types of dental fillings are discussed below:
1) Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for many years to repair decayed teeth. They are made of a metal alloy that includes silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings are a long-lasting and durable option for restoring teeth in the back of the mouth
> Amalgam Fillings Cost:
Because amalgam fillings are significantly less expensive than other fillings, they are a cost-effective option for many patients. An amalgam filling costs between $50 and $150 on average, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
> Amalgam Fillings Benefits
The durability and strength of amalgam fillings are two advantages.
- They are less likely to break or crack than other types of fillings and can withstand chewing forces.
- Amalgam fillings are also simple to install and take less time in the dental chair than other options.
- They are not, however, a cosmetic option and may be visible when laughing or smiling.
2) Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are popular for restoring teeth in visible areas of the mouth because they are made of a tooth-colored resin material that blends in with the tooth’s natural color. Because they are bonded directly to the tooth surface, they are a more conservative option that removes less tooth structure
> Composite Fillings Cost
The cost of composite fillings is generally higher than amalgam fillings but lower than ceramic or gold fillings. A composite filling costs between $90 and $250 on average, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
> Composite Fillings Benefits
Aesthetic appeal and natural appearance are two advantages of composite fillings.
- They are virtually invisible and can restore a tooth’s natural appearance.
- Composite fillings also bond to the tooth, reducing the likelihood of leakage or breakage over time.
- Furthermore, they are mercury-free, making them a safe option for patients concerned about mercury exposure.
3) Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made of an acrylic and glass powder mixture and are primarily used to restore teeth in low-stress areas, such as around the gum line. They are frequently used in pediatric dentistry because they release fluoride, which can aid in the prevention of tooth decay.
> Glass Ionomer Fillings Cost
Glass ionomer fillings are generally less expensive than composite fillings but more expensive than amalgam fillings. A glass ionomer filling costs $75 to $200 on average, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
> Glass Ionomer Fillings Benefits
According to dentist near you, Glass ionomer fillings have several advantages, including:
- The ability to release fluoride, which can help prevent future decay, and the ability to bond to the tooth can help prevent leakage.
- They are also the same color as natural teeth and can blend in with the surrounding tooth structure. They are, however, less durable than other filling materials and may need to be replaced more frequently.
4) Gold Fillings
Gold fillings, also known as inlays or onlays, are made of a mixture of gold and other metals and are custom-made to fit the shape of the cavity in a dental laboratory. They are extremely long-lasting and durable, making them popular for restoring teeth in the back of the mouth.
> Gold Fillings Cost
Due to the high cost of gold and the additional laboratory work required, gold fillings are generally the most expensive of all filling materials. A gold filling costs between $250 and $4,500 on average, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
> Gold Fillings Benefits
Gold fillings have several advantages, including:
- Their strength and durability can withstand chewing forces and last for many years.
- They are also biocompatible, not corroding or discoloring over time.
- They require less tooth structure removal than amalgam or composite fillings and can help strengthen the tooth structure.
Get Tooth Fillings Near You
There are several types of dental fillings. Teeth can be filled with porcelain, gold, amalgam, or tooth-colored, plastic, and composite resin fillings. The filling best for you is determined by the location and extent of the decay, the cost of filling material, your insurance coverage, and recommendation by our dentist in Plano, TX when getting tooth fillings near you. Are you looking to get tooth-colored fillings in Plano, 75024? Give us a call or book an appointment with Arte Dental today to get dental fillings in Plano, TX!