Categories: Composite Fillings

Why Is a Dental Filling Considered a Direct Dental Restoration?

Wondering why a dental fillings is also known as a direct dental restoration? There are both direct and indirect restoration options available, with each option addressing a particular dental problem. Examples of indirect options include dental crowns, dental bridges, dental veneers and dental implants, as these types of restorations are constructed outside of the mouth. Dental fillings, on the other hand, are considered to be a direct dental restoration.

About direct dental restorations

Direct restorations are dental procedures that take place within the mouth, like dental fillings. According to WebMD, to treat a cavity the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then "fill" the area on the tooth where the decayed material was removed. Other examples of direct restorations include tooth extractions and root canals, as these are also dental procedures that are also performed directly in a patient's mouth.

Dental filling materials

When someone is in need of a dental filling, they can choose the type of material they want to be placed in their mouth. This makes it a good idea for anyone who is in need of one or more dental fillings to learn the advantages and disadvantages that come with each option. The list below includes three popular dental filling materials dental patients are choosing.

Composite fillings

Composite fillings are made using glass or quartz and can be used to fill small to medium fillings. They are durable, as they can withstand a good amount of pressure that happens during the chewing process. They tend to last between five and seven years, making eventual replacement necessary. While many people choose this filling material because it is strong and cosmetically pleasing, it is possible for them to discolor or stain.

Ceramic fillings

Ceramic fillings are made using porcelain, which means that they are tooth-colored and therefore blend in with one’s teeth when placed in the mouth. This dental filling choice is able to resist any stains, unlike composite fillings, making them a popular option for those who are concerned about tooth stains affecting their smile. Even though they are not as strong as other filling materials, they are still a popular option because they are so natural looking.

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings are also known as metal fillings, as they are made using a combination of materials, e.g., silver, copper, tin, mercury. They are very strong, durable and accordingly can last upwards of 20 years with proper oral care. This choice is visible as the dental fillings are made of metal and can become sensitive when consuming anything that is either hot or cold.

In need of a dental filling?

Getting a dental filling requires one to undergo a direct restoration procedure, which means the entire treatment process will take place inside of the patient's mouth. When it comes to choosing the type of dental filling material, patients can choose the type of material they want or they can ask a dental professional to help them decide. Understand that cavities will only continue to worsen until they are treated.

Are you considering getting a dental filling in the Aurora area? Get more information at https://www.grandviewdentalcolorado.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Fillings in Aurora, CO.

Recent Posts

Tooth-Colored Dental Filling Options

Tooth-colored dental fillings are the popular way to fill up cavities these days. Silver amalgam fillings have been the norm for the past 150 years, but a lot has changed since better alternatives emerged. Silver amalgam fillings contain mercury which is now known to be toxic to the body. It also has a grey color…

What Materials Are Used In Dental Fillings?

Before we get into our discussion of the materials used for dental fillings, it is important to know what they are used for. Fillings are used to replace parts of teeth that have been affected by cavities, cracks, or damage from nail-biting or teeth grinding. There are various materials that fillings are made of. Read…

What Is A Silver Amalgam Dental Filling?

Silver amalgam is a kind of dental fillings used to fill tooth cavities resulting from tooth decay. The amalgam comprises metals, mercury, and powdered silver, tin, and copper alloy. By weight, elemental mercury makes up almost half of the dental amalgam. The elemental mercury's chemical characteristics cause it to react and bond with the copper,…

Ask A Dentist: What Should I Do With A Loose Dental Filling?

Millions of dental filling procedures are done yearly in the United States. With it being so common, there are bound to be times when fillings will come loose, crack, or dislodge from the tooth. You may be wondering what the symptoms are and what to do if it happens to you.Dental fillings, also called restorations,…

Grandview Dental

Share
Published by
Grandview Dental

Recent Posts

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

How often an individual gets dental cleaning depends on their unique needs. Here are a…

3 weeks ago

Why Daily Oral Hygiene is Important for Dental Health

Learn about the importance of creating a good oral hygiene routine, as good oral hygiene…

2 months ago

Transforming Your Smile: Steps to a Successful Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a cosmetic process that alters the aesthetic of the smile without…

3 months ago

How Preventive Dentistry Can Catch Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can occur in any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, tonsils,…

4 months ago

Dentures Causing Sore Spots in Mouth: Denture Adjustment Needed

Learn why a denture adjustment is needed when you have sore spots in your mouth.…

5 months ago

Tooth-Colored Dental Filling Options

Tooth-colored dental fillings are the popular way to fill up cavities these days.

6 months ago