Being familiar with your filling options empowers you to choose the best treatment for your teeth.

Call 918-347-1126 to repair your smile with tooth fillings in Owasso, OK. Make an appointment at LakeCrest Dental soon.

Amalgam Fillings: Time-Tested Technology

Since the 1800s, dentists have relied on amalgam fillings to repair cavities. These silver-toned restorations combine several metals — silver, tin, copper, and mercury — to create a remarkably strong filling material. While some patients express concern about mercury content, leading dental associations consistently affirm their safety record for patients over age six. Many dentists still recommend amalgam fillings, particularly for back teeth, due to their outstanding durability and affordability. With good oral hygiene, these resilient restorations typically serve patients well for 10-15 years.

Composite Fillings: The Modern Standard

Composite resin fillings have revolutionized dental restoration with their natural appearance and versatile applications. These tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. While slightly more expensive than amalgam, composite fillings offer several compelling advantages:

  • Visual Appeal: The color can be precisely matched to your natural teeth
  • Minimal Tooth Reduction: Less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed
  • Versatility: Can repair chips, gaps, and worn edges beyond just cavity filling
  • Chemical Bonding: Forms a strong connection with the tooth structure
  • Mercury-Free: Provides peace of mind for environmentally conscious patients

Gold Fillings: The Premium Option

Gold fillings, while expensive, represent the gold standard in durability. These custom-made inlays can last over 20 years and are highly biocompatible. However, their distinctive appearance and higher cost make them less common today.

Why Consider Composite Fillings?

More and more patients are opting for composite fillings, and with good reason. These modern restorations make an excellent choice if you’re concerned about appearance—particularly for cavities in teeth that show when you talk, laugh, or flash your smile. Consider composite if:

  • You want a more natural-looking solution
  • You’re concerned about mercury in dental materials
  • The cavity is relatively small to medium-sized
  • You want to preserve more of your natural tooth structure
  • You need to repair minor cosmetic issues like chips or gaps

Taking Action for Your Dental Health

Don’t let dental anxiety or confusion about filling materials prevent you from addressing tooth decay. Today’s dental procedures are more comfortable than ever, and modern filling materials offer excellent solutions for nearly every situation. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss which filling material best suits your needs, considering factors like the cavity’s location, size, your budget, and personal preferences.

Remember, treating cavities promptly helps prevent more extensive and expensive dental work in the future. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, your fillings can provide years of reliable service.

Call LakeCrest Dental at 918-347-1126 or schedule online for your appointment in Owasso, OK.

Whether you’re dealing with a new cavity or considering replacing old fillings, today’s dental professionals can help you choose the perfect solution for your unique situation.