Types of Dental Fillings


Composite Resin Fillings

There are no known health risks of receiving composite fillings. Composite resin dental fillings were created as an alternative to traditional metal dental fillings. Tooth fillings colored to look like a natural tooth are known as Composite Resin Dental Fillings, are made of a plastic dental resin. Composite Resin Dental Fillings are strong, durable, and make for a very natural looking smile. Many dental insurance plans cover their use.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings may contain mercury, and are often referred to as metal fillings. Their safety has been in question for a number of years due to concerns over the absorption of elemental mercury contributing to several diseases, including Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, dementia and arthritis. The FDA investigations have not proven that the minute amount of mercury vapors released from silver fillings is a health hazard. Amalgam fillings are a mixture of mercury liquid and small pieces of silver and other metals such as copper, tin and zinc.

Inlays and Onlays

If over half of your molar tooth's biting surface is decayed an inlay or onlay may be a better option than a filling. These options are basically for when more than a filling is needed but less than a crown will do. An inlay is placed in between the cusps of the tooth, whereas an onlay will cover one or more of the cusps. They can be made of a gold alloy, porcelain or tooth-colored resin and are cemented into place.

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  1. Introduction to dental fillings section
  2. Fillings for your teeth - an overview
  3. When are dental fillings called for?
  4. Procedure description: Dental fillings
  5. Types of tooth fillings - amalgam and resin
  6. How much do cavity fillings cost?
  7. Things to consider - Advantages and disadvantages
  8. Before and after photos - dental fillings
  9. Personal stories from people who have had their teeth filled
  10. Discuss fillings and cavities on the cosmetic dentistry message board

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 A guide to fillings for your teeth after tooth decay.