Wondering why a dental fillings is also known as a direct dental restoration? There are both direct and indirect restoration options available, with each option addressing a particular dental problem. Examples of indirect options include dental crowns, dental bridges, dental veneers and dental implants, as these types of restorations are constructed outside of the mouth. Dental fillings, on the other hand, are considered to be a direct dental restoration.
About direct dental restorations
Direct restorations are dental procedures that take place within the mouth, like dental fillings. According to WebMD, to treat a cavity the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then "fill" the area on the tooth where the decayed material was removed. Other examples of direct restorations include tooth extractions and root canals, as these are also dental procedures that are also performed directly in a patient's mouth.
Dental filling materials
When someone is in need of a dental filling, they can choose the type of material they want to be placed in their mouth. This makes it a good idea for anyone who is in need of one or more dental fillings to learn the advantages and disadvantages that come with each option. The list below includes three popular dental filling materials dental patients are choosing.
Composite fillings
Composite fillings are made using glass or quartz and can be used to fill small to medium fillings. They are durable, as they can withstand a good amount of pressure that happens during the chewing process. They tend to last between five and seven years, making eventual replacement necessary. While many people choose this filling material because it is strong and cosmetically pleasing, it is possible for them to discolor or stain.
Ceramic fillings
Ceramic fillings are made using porcelain, which means that they are tooth-colored and therefore blend in with one’s teeth when placed in the mouth. This dental filling choice is able to resist any stains, unlike composite fillings, making them a popular option for those who are concerned about tooth stains affecting their smile. Even though they are not as strong as other filling materials, they are still a popular option because they are so natural looking.
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam fillings are also known as metal fillings, as they are made using a combination of materials, e.g., silver, copper, tin, mercury. They are very strong, durable and accordingly can last upwards of 20 years with proper oral care. This choice is visible as the dental fillings are made of metal and can become sensitive when consuming anything that is either hot or cold.
In need of a dental filling?
Getting a dental filling requires one to undergo a direct restoration procedure, which means the entire treatment process will take place inside of the patient's mouth. When it comes to choosing the type of dental filling material, patients can choose the type of material they want or they can ask a dental professional to help them decide. Understand that cavities will only continue to worsen until they are treated.
Are you considering getting a dental filling in the Lancaster area? Get more information at https://lancasterpadentist.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Fillings in Lancaster, PA.
Recent Posts
There is no need to panic if you have just found out you have a cavity; the most common treatment approach is to undergo a dental filling procedure. Dental fillings materials can be made from resin, ionomers, gold, amalgam, or ceramics and are used to replace decaying tooth material during the filling process.Although it may…
Are you getting a dental filling in the near future? Dental fillings are needed to restore teeth that are in bad shape. The procedure itself is very common and a lot of people rely on it to improve their oral health.With all dental procedures comes the question of whether or not pain will be involved.…
The general rule is that people visit their dentist in Lancaster twice yearly for a checkup, deep cleaning and oral screening. The visit also presents a chance to be proactive by asking questions related to oral health, recommended treatments and concerns about cosmetic treatments.It is helpful to make a list of questions before going to…
Today, with increasing importance placed on dental aesthetics, there are many reasons why one may consider a trip to the cosmetic dentist. The desire for good-looking teeth is important as beautiful smiles are known to contribute to a person's overall well-being and positive self-image. There are many different avenues for fixing an imperfect smile. In…