What Are Dental Fillings Made Of?

Many people dread a trip to the dentist.  The whirl of the drill, the scrape of the pick and the idea of someone’s fingers in your mouth sends chills down anyone’s spine.  The trip can become exponentially worse when the dentist says, “Looks like you need a filling.”  However, a dental filling can ultimately save a tooth from decay, preventing further troubles down the road.

Dental fillings are needed when tooth decay or trauma occurs. The inside necrotic portion of the tooth is removed and a filling is inserted in its place. Traditionally, dental fillings were made of gold, amalgam or a base metal alloy. These are still excellent options as they are strong and durable, supporting substantial pressure when chewing occurs. Gold is not commonly used anymore due to the cost and specialized training needs, but amalgam is still widely used regardless of the controversy surrounding the material.  Amalgam is known to leach small amounts of mercury, but there is little evidence that this mercury remains in the body or unsafe levels are reached. Amalgam is relatively inexpensive and works very well for the back teeth where it can be hard to keep the cavity preparation dry.

Tooth colored fillings are also an option as those made out of metals or alloys tend to be visible.  Dental composite fillings are made from a resin and quartz or glass filler mix making them less noticeable.  However, they are not as strong or durable and are more prone to wear and discoloration. Glass ionomer cement can also be used to make dental fillings and is tooth colored, but like composite fillings, is generally weaker and can only be used where little pressure is exerted in the mouth.  

It is important to note that all fillings will eventually fail. Amalgam fillings last on average for 12.8 years whereas composite fillings last only 7.8 years. Before getting a filling, it is important to discuss with your dentist which will be the correct fit for you.