What's In a Filling?

So, you have a cavity and it needs to be filled. When a cavity is detected and needs to be filled, there is a growing array of material that can be used. Still, with advances in the types of material that can used to fill a cavity, the two most popular materials are dental amalgam or resin composite. 

For over 150 years, dentists have used dental amalgam to fill cavities in teeth. Most popularly referred to a metal, gold, or silver filling, the amalgam used in fillings is most commonly a combination of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Mercury makes up around 50% of the filling and is used to bind the other metals together which adhere to tooth using a dental cement-like material. It is a favorite amongst patients for its less expensive price tag and extensive lifespan. It is a favorite amongst dentists because of its ease of use. Dental amalgam is most popular for filling cavities in the back of the mouth. For front teeth, a composite resin is much more popular for its aesthetic value. 


Composite resin is a tooth-like material most commonly used where the material would be visible. It is most primarily composed of a mixture of powdered glass, plastic resin, and ceramic compounds. Though it is not nearly as strong as dental amalgam and are more expensive, many favor the material when the cavity needing to be filled is in a visible area.


Before you have your cavities filled, discuss your options for what materials are available for your dental filling. For an additional overview of filling material, check out this post from Delta Dental. If it's been a while since you've last had your teeth examined for cavities and other problems, contact the dental professionals at the Tulsa offices of Dr. Larry James, D.D.S.. Catching problems early makes it easier, less costly, and possibly less painful to reverse. In order to have your teeth examined by the best, contact the Tulsa's dental professionals at Dr. Larry James, D.D.S..