Dental Fillings in Central Northwest, Houston, TX
Do you think you need a dental filling near you but worry that the procedure will leave you with an unnatural silver-looking restoration? No one likes the idea of having metal in their mouths. That’s why modern dentists, like the team at SND Family Dental, offer clear aligners instead of old-school metal braces and tooth-colored material as a choice in your dental filling.
A Brief Overview of Various Dental Filling Materials
Here we list a brief overview, in alphabetical order, of the types of materials most commonly used for dental fillings. Please remember that your dentist is the best resource for complete information on every filling material. Our dentists at SND Family Dental are here to provide additional information if needed.
Amalgam Fillings: Silver-colored metal material is most often used on back teeth because it is one of the strongest options for dental fillings.
Composite Fillings: More aesthetically attractive than amalgam fillings because they are tooth-colored; composite fillings from our dentists near you can be made of ceramic or resin bases in addition to ceramic or other light transferring material.
Glass Ionomer Fillings: This is the weakest of all the materials and is reserved for use predominately on baby teeth or non-biting surfaces.
Gold Fillings: Also known as inlays and onlays, gold is the most durable of all material choices, but it is also more expensive than other options.
Porcelain Fillings: This material can be color-matched to a patient’s tooth for a natural-looking restoration, but it is often more expensive than composite fillings.
Please Call Us Now to Learn More
While tooth-colored materials are not considered the most durable material for use in teeth that undergo heavy wear and tear (like back molars), it is an excellent choice in material for natural-looking front teeth dental fillings. When you visit our dentists in Houston, TX for your dental filling consultation, you’ll learn about every material option available so you can choose the one that makes the best sense for your restoration. You’ll learn about the benefits and disadvantages of each material, as well as durability differences and cost differences.
FAQs
Yes, dental fillings are not permanent and may need replacement over time as they wear down or develop cracks. At SND Family Dental, our dentists recommend regular check-ups to assess the condition of your fillings and determine if replacement is necessary. With proper care, fillings will last for many years before needing to be replaced.
Determining the need for a dental filling is part of a comprehensive dental examination, which may include X-rays to detect cavities. Our doctors at SND Family Dental will carefully examine your teeth and recommend fillings if decay or damage is detected.
Yes, it's important to continue flossing even with dental fillings. Initially, there may be slight sensitivity or a different sensation around filled teeth, but regular flossing remains crucial for maintaining oral hygiene. SND Family Dental encourages all patients to maintain their daily flossing routine to keep teeth and gums healthy.
Most dental insurance plans include coverage for dental fillings, though the extent of coverage can vary. SND Family Dental works with many insurance providers to help patients understand their coverage and benefits for necessary dental treatments.
Yes, dental fillings are considered safe and are used to restore teeth damaged by decay. At SND Family Dental, we use modern materials and techniques to minimize any potential risks associated with fillings, ensuring they are both effective and safe for our patients.
Taking care of a filling is similar to caring for a natural tooth. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once in a day, and visit SND Family Dental for regular cleanings and exams every six months. These simple steps help maintain the health and longevity of your dental fillings, ensuring your smile remains healthy and beautiful.
