Teeth Fillings

Where it is too late to prevent tooth decay or reverse the condition, we offer comprehensive treatment and rectification. We fill the gap created by the removed decayed tooth. Dental fillings are available in various materials depending on your needs. At Westmore, we provide fillings in gold, silver amalgam, porcelain, tooth coloured, glass and plastic materials. Each of these materials has its pros and cons. Our experts fully inform patients of their choices so that they can make the best decision; some of these are highlighted below:

Gold

Pros

•Durable as it can last for 10 to 15 years and more, and it is not corrosive
•Strong as it can withstand pressures of chewing

Cons

• Expensive as it cost way more than others filling materials
• It requires a few extra visits to the clinic to place it
• If placed next to a silver amalgam, the interaction between the metals and saliva can cause a painful shock.

Silver amalgam

Pros

• It is also durable and can last between 10-15 years
• It is less expensive
• It can withstand chewing pressures

Cons

• The colour doesn’t match those of natural teeth.
• It takes a large space, so healthy parts of the tooth may need to be destroyed to fix it.
• Can cause discolouration of surrounding teeth
• It is more susceptible to cold and hot liquids, which causes fractures and cracks.
• Mercury is present in the amalgam, which causes an allergic reaction in some people.

Tooth coloured fillings

Pros

• Since its colour matches that of the existing teeth, it is suitable for use especially in the visible tooth-like front tooth
• They can be used to repair worn, broken, or chipped teeth as well.
• This filling does not require the removal of much of the tooth structure.

Cons

• It lasts an average of five years
• Depending on where it is fixed, it can chip off from the tooth
• It costs more than amalgams

Ceramic porcelain

Pros

• It is resistant to stains
• It lasts as long as 15 years and more.

Cons

• It is abrasive
• Very expensive, almost as much as gold

Glass ionomer

Pros

• It is usually used for children
• It releases fluoride which prevents further decay
• It is less expensive

Cons

• It requires drilling to fix
• Material is weaker and susceptible to cracks and chipping
• It lasts for a short period of an average of five years

We also do indirect fillings such as onlays and inlays, contact us today to get started.

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