If your dentist finds a cavity in one of your teeth, you may need a tooth filling Markham. However, you still have some options to choose from, as fillings can be made from materials like amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, or gold. The best material for you will depend on your dental needs.
Amalgam
Silver in colour, amalgam is the original tooth filling material. Many people are concerned that amalgam fillings are dangerous due to their mercury content, but there is no evidence to show that the metal has any impact on health.
Amalgam fillings can be detrimental to teeth, but for other reasons. First, the material gradually expands over time, which can lead to fractures in teeth. Second, the colour can seep into teeth, staining them permanently. For this reason, most people now opt for other materials or only use amalgam on back teeth where a filling is less visible.
Composite Resin
Composite resin allows you to have fillings that match the colour of your teeth. Another reason they are also popular is that the dentist removes only a minimal amount of your healthy tooth. Composite fillings are applied as putty and cured with a special light. They are best for smaller fillings and for back teeth, as they can stain.
Porcelain
Porcelain fillings are some of the most durable and another option that matches the shade of your teeth. Unlike the above, porcelain fillings are made in a lab using an impression of your tooth. However, there are some disadvantages: your dentist will need to remove more of the healthy tooth than for amalgam or composite and porcelain tends to be more expensive.
Gold
Gold fillings are the most expensive, but they are also the most durable. However, with realistic-looking porcelain fillings now an option, gold is less common.
