Dental Fillings

Fillings are necessary when decay has destroyed some of the protective enamel surrounding a tooth, creating the dreaded dental “cavity.” Leaving decay untouched is never recommended and will probably lead to future root canal therapy. New techniques in pain management and cavity preparation make this a quick and relatively simple dental process.

Repairing your tooth is easier than ever with the traditional, economical and well-tested amalgam filling. Composite fillings are appropriate in certain situations and have the benefit of matching the color of your teeth. Finally, ionomer fillings are a nearly invisible option that can be applied to repair non-chewing surfaces. Dr. Brian Steele, your Sacramento dentist, offers all of these filling options.

Amalgam Restorations

Dental amalgam is an alloy combining silver, tin, copper, mercury and other metals. Some patients are concerned about the presence of mercury in amalgam. Alloyed with the other metals in amalgam, mercury is stable and safe, unlike its pure elemental form. The American Dental Association, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization all have declared dental amalgam safe, reliable and effective.

The benefits of amalgam are many. We have over one hundred years of research regarding dental practice with amalgam. It is one of the hardest restorations available, preferred when dealing with surfaces that face considerable chewing pressure. Below the gum line, it is the easiest restoration to apply. It is also the most economical form of dental filling material.

Composite Restorations

Composite fillings are made of a glass or quartz material combined with a tooth-colored resin. This type of filling is suitable for small to medium sized restorations. The composite material is generally adhesively bonded to your tooth. This means that your cavity usually requires less drilling for a composite filling. The material is subject to staining over time, depending on your eating and dental care habits.

Ionomer Restorations

Ionomer fillings are translucent and tooth-colored, created by mixing acrylics with glass powders. Since the material cannot tolerate the pressure created on chewing surfaces, this restoration is used for areas such as between the teeth or near the root. It is especially beneficial for preserving your smile if a filling is needed for a high visibility surface. Ionomers are suitable for smaller fillings. For patients with considerable problems with decay, ionomers are available that release protective fluoride over time.