Dental fillings are among the most common types of restorative dental treatment options. Dental fillings are used for salvaging decaying teeth; restoring their appearance, function, and structure; and protecting them from further decay. Dental fillings are also used for repairing chipped teeth and those that have been damaged due to misuse, such as tooth grinding.
If you have a damaged tooth or suspect that you may have a cavity, seek the expertise of Dr. Steven Hagerman at Hagerman Dental Care. Dr. Hagerman is one of the leading providers of high-quality metal-free tooth fillings in St. Paul, Minnesota, and he is just as committed to delivering the highest quality of dental services as he is to empowering our patients to make wise decisions about their oral health. Thus, during your appointment with him, he will discuss the pros and cons of each type of tooth filling with you to help you weigh your options and make a well-informed decision as to which is the right one for you. Here are the two types of dental fillings we offer here at Hagerman Dental Care, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made of porcelain. If you decide to get this type, Dr. Hagerman will get a mold of your tooth and then send it to the dental laboratory to be used for the preparation of the indirect filling. Getting ceramic fillings typically requires two visits.
Pros
- Made to closely mimic the tooth enamel, be it in aesthetics, feel, and wear rate
- Durable- can last up to 15 years
- Expensive but are a very good investment
- Does not stain easily
Cons
- If not placed properly, ceramic fillings can contribute to the wear of opposing teeth.
- May require reducing the size of the tooth to prevent breaking
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin, also called tooth-colored fillings, is made of a plastic substance called acrylic resin that is reinforced with powdered glass, quartz, silica, or other particles.
Pros
- Aesthetically pleasing- Like ceramic fillings, composite resin fillings also blend well with the color of your teeth.
- Requires less enamel removal – lets you maintain the natural structure of your tooth
- Bonds efficiently to tooth structure – Because composite fillings micro-mechanically bond to tooth structure, they can provide the teeth with good support.
- More affordable compared to ceramic fillings
Cons
- Characteristically softer than tooth enamel – not as durable as porcelain
- Can get easily stained
Tooth Fillings in St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hagerman for tooth fillings or our other dental services, call our office at (651) 646-2392, or use our online appointment request form.