Do you have a cavity or minor tooth damage? A dental clinic in NW Calgarycan help restore your smile with a tooth filling. Tooth fillings are a common treatment that protects your tooth, stops further decay, and restores its function. Knowing what a tooth filling is and the types available can help you make the best choice for your dental care.
Whether you’re considering a new filling or replacing an old one, knowing the difference between tooth-coloured fillings and metal fillings is important for long-term oral health.
What is a Tooth Filling?
A tooth filling is a material used to fix a tooth that has decay or damage. The dentist near you removes the bad part of the tooth and fills it with a material that restores its shape and strength.
Steps in getting a tooth filling:
- Numb the area with local anesthesia so you don’t feel pain.
- Remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth.
- Clean and prepare the cavity
- Please put in the filling material and shape it.
- Polish the filling to make it smooth.
Fillings help stop further damage and let you chew and speak normally again.
Types of Tooth Fillings
There are two main types of tooth fillings near you:
1. Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Made from composite resin
- Matches the natural colour of your teeth
- Bonds directly to the tooth for a strong repair
- Often preferred for front teeth or visible areas.
2. Metal Fillings
- Usually made of silver amalgam.
- Very durable and long-lasting
- Often used for back teeth, where chewing pressure is higher.
- More noticeable due to the silver colour
Better Tooth-Coloured Filling or a Metal Filling?
Choosing a better tooth-colored filling or a metal fillingdepends on your priorities and the location of the tooth. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Tooth-Coloured Filling | Metal Filling |
| Appearance | Matches natural teeth | Silver colour, noticeable |
| Durability | Strong, lasts 5–10 years | Very durable, can last 10–15 years |
| Cost | Usually higher | More affordable |
| Tooth Bonding | Bonds to tooth structure | Does not bond directly |
| Best Use | Front or visible teeth | Back teeth under high pressure |
In general, tooth-coloured fillings are preferred for cosmetic reasons and smaller cavities, while metal fillings are chosen for durability in molars.
How Tooth Fillings Protect Your Teeth
Tooth fillings in NW Calgary play an essential role in maintaining oral health. They:
- Seal the tooth to prevent further decay.
- Restore chewing function
- Reduce sensitivity caused by cavities.
- Maintain the tooth’s natural shape.
Proper care of your fillings ensures they last longer and continue protecting your teeth.
When to Consider Replacing a Filling
You may need to replace a filling if you see:
- Cracks, chips, or worn spots
- Pain or sensitivity near the filling
- Colour changes or rust in metal fillings
- New cavities around an old filling
Visiting the dentist at a dental clinic for tooth filling treatment regularly can help find these problems early, before they get worse.
Restore Your Smile with Expert Care!
If you have a cavity or need to replace an old filling, the team at Foothill Dental Group is ready to help you choose the best option for your teeth. Schedule your visit today and protect your smile for years to come.
FAQs
- Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as metal fillings?
Yes. For most cavities, tooth-colored fillings are strong enough for everyday chewing and can last for many years.
- Does getting a filling hurt?
No. The dentist numbs the area, so the procedure is usually painless. You may only feel a little pressure.
- How long does a filling last?
Tooth-colored fillings last about 5–10 years, while metal fillings can last 10–15 years.
- Can I get a filling on a back tooth?
Yes. Both tooth-colored and metal fillings can be used on back teeth, depending on the cavity.