Tooth-coloured fillings

With new materials being invented all the time, the use of silver amalgam fillings is rapidly declining. New materials such as composites and porcelain offer a much more aesthetically pleasing result, and can provide the same strength and durability.

Your choices for fillings

Your FirstBite dentist will give you advice and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type so you can make an informed decision. The best type for you will depend on how big the restoration is, whether it is in a visible part of the mouth, and the potential cost.

Tooth-Coloured Resin Composite Fillings

These have an average longevity 7-10 years. They are tooth coloured, moderate cost and best used in small-to-medium-size restorations for any teeth. They are performed on the same day.

Tooth-Coloured Ceramic Indirect Fillings

Average longevity 10–15 years. These are also tooth coloured and are best used in moderate to large sized restorations for any teeth. With the use of our CEREC CAD-CAM technology, these can be done in one single visit, and are digitally made and milled on site. These do cost a bit more than your standard fillings, but are stronger and lasts longer.

Gold Inlays And Onlays

Average longevity 10-15 years to life; gold colour; moderate-to-high initial cost; may be used in any size restoration in any location where metal is not displayed.

 

Silver Amalgam Fillings

Silver amalgam (an alloy that contains silver, tin, copper, zinc and about 50% mercury) has been used for approximately 160 years for the restoration of teeth. These are not commonly used in today’s dentistry anymore.

Glass Ionomer

Average longevity 3-5 years; tooth coloured, fluoride-containing plastic-type filling. Not very strong, so wears down quickly. Good for fillings in kids’ teeth, as a temporary filling, or in patients with a lot of decay.

Restoration using a crown

If a cavity is significant in size, or there are visible cracks, then the integrity of these teeth are reduced and they are prone to fracture, pain and future tooth loss. These teeth may be capped with a crown to restore its form and function. Visit our Dental Crowns page for further information.