Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are nothing new to dentistry. But science has come up with many beautiful alternatives of fillings for patients. Traditional dental restorations/fillings are often made of silver amalgam. Durability and strength wise Dental amalgam is unmatched by far. But it comes with its disadvantages, mostly in the form of color, use of mercury as a component and fracture of tooth structure. Newer materials have the advantage of strength, tooth mimicking color, anti cavity properties. These are called "Composites" or "Composite resins". Because of their superior color they can be used in front or back teeth.

CHOICE OF MATERIAL FOR PATIENT

Ideally speaking the material should be chosen by the dentist as he knows what will work best for that situation. The factors that a patient should look in to while choosing the material of choice are:

• Composition
• Color of material
• Longevity
• Tooth structure
• Front/ Back tooth
• Sensitivity issues
• Treatment duration
• the cost to the patient

It is for the best of interest for the patient, he/ she is advised to ask as many as questions and clear the queries before undergoing the treatment.

DIRECT / INDIRECT FILLINGS

Most of the fillings materials( amalgam, composites) come under direct fillings. So what is this direct and Indirect fillings? A direct fillings is prepared and fixed directly on to the patient’s tooth. Whereas the indirect fillings ONLAY/INLAY/OVERLAY/TABLETOP/V TOP) are done in the laboratory and then fixed on to the patient’s tooth. Both the options have their own advantages and disadvantages. Our dentist will help you to guide you the right choice.