Tooth decay is a dental health problem which is a result of poor oral health, hygiene and a diet rich in sugar and sweetened beverages. The fillings are used for sealing the cavities and stopping the decay from progressing further, says the dentist in Mechanicsburg. The most common material available for fillings are amalgam, gold, composite, and porcelain.

Some Filling Material Can Cause Allergic Reactions

According to the dentist in Mechanicsburg, PA, amalgam fillings contain material such as mercury, chromium, beryllium, or nickel. In some people, these components can cause side effects or even allergic reactions. The allergy can be in the form of a rash, swelling, or soft tissue burns. If you need a strong filling for the back of your teeth, amalgam is the best option. But for the front teeth, you may want to consider porcelain or composite restorations.

Fillings are Softer than Your Natural Teeth

While dental filling materials have improved over the last few decades, fillings are still softer than your natural enamel. Some filling material may not be able to withstand the forces of chewing and biting. It’s best to not chew hard things like nuts, ice, and hard candy while having fillings.

Dental Filling Treatment

Some people have the misconception that dental filling is a painful process, but it’s painless. Most dentists use local anesthetic to numb the area during procedure.

Most Popular Filling Material

Composite filling
They are popular as they can be made to match your tooth enamel. They’re good for small cavities in the visible areas of your mouth. It can chip over the period of time and get stained by tea, coffee, and tobacco. If taken care of, they can last for 3 to 10 years, says the dentist in 17050.

Porcelain
It’s more expensive and is used when larger area needs restoration. They can resist staining and match the tooth color perfectly. They are worth the extra cost.

The types of filling to be used depends on the location where it’s going to be used inside the mouth. Talk to your dentist about how fillings can improve your oral health.

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