Fillings and You: What’s the Best Way to Treat Your Cavity?

Have you been feeling tooth sensitivity when eating anything incredibly hot or cold? Are you experiencing a sharp pain when you bite down? If so, you could have a cavity. It’s important to see your dentist to mend the damage before it progresses further. They’ll need to clean any decay and fill in your tooth in order to preserve it. That said, there’s more than one way to do so! Keep reading to learn about the options so you can make an informed decision.

Option #1: Metal Fillings

Metal, or amalgam, fillings use a combination of materials like silver, zinc, copper, and mercury to fill in the decayed area of your pearly white. This is historically the method dentists have used in recent decades to address tooth decay. Their composition makes them incredibly durable, so you know they’ll last a long time. As an added bonus, they’re also usually the more cost-effective treatment.

One drawback, however, is that they contrast with your teeth and so are easy to see. The grey, shiny color visibly glints in the light when you open your mouth to eat, speak, or smile. As a result, many patients feel self-conscious about their appearance after their dental work is complete.

Option #2: Composite Resin Fillings

Composite resin fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and microscopic glass particles instead of metal. This material can be specifically matched to the exact shade of your teeth so that you don’t have to worry that anyone will notice them. The substance also forms a stronger bond with your natural enamel which means your dentist can preserve more of your tooth’s structure during placement. As a result, it’s considered a higher-quality repair.

Though they offer additional advantages over their traditional counterparts, these fillings do tend to cost more and are somewhat less resilient. They can still last years with the right care but are more prone to damage than metal.

Which Treatment is Best for Me?

Truthfully, only you and your dentist can decide on the best technique to use for your fillings. They’ll consider the condition of your teeth as well as your own personal dental concerns and goals. Then they’ll make a recommendation that they feel best suits your particular needs.

Don’t delay! It’s important to contact your dentist sooner rather than later so that you can decide either way. Once a decision is made, you’ll have your cavity filled so that you can enjoy a healthy, pain-free grin once again.

About the Practice

At Springhetti Dentistry, our incredibly skilled dental team takes pride in providing patients with a full range of dental services with a personalized approach. Our dentists take the time to get to know you and your oral health history and vision to deliver high-quality results that last. If you have a toothache and require assistance, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (317) 875-7645.