Your Chehalis dentist offers a variety of different dental fillings. Find out which is right for your smile.

If you are faced with a cavity, don’t feel too defeated. In fact, almost 100 percent of people will experience a cavity at some point in their lives. No matter how well we brush and floss, sometimes cavities still happen. After your Chehalis dentist removes the decay he will then place a dental filling over that part of the tooth to protect it. There are several types of dental fillings, and it’s important to know the pros and cons of each kind so you can opt for one that fits your smile needs.

Gold: Gold fillings offer durability, boasting a lifespan of up to 15 years. Another bonus is that they are also non-corrosive. Some patients may even find that they like the look of gold fillings even more than silver amalgam fillings; however, gold fillings can often cost significantly more than silver fillings can and it may take multiple dental visits to get the proper fit.

Silver Amalgam: Silver fillings also tout a sturdiness that is similar to gold fillings but with a more appealing price tag. The major drawback is that a silver filling isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing and some patients may be turned off by the appearance.

Composite: These tend to be the most popular type of dental fillings because they are made from a tooth-colored material. However, while it does promise a better look, composite fillings are certainly not as durable as metal ones and won’t last as long (the average lifespan of a composite filling is about five years). Composites are also more expensive than silver fillings but still less expensive than gold ones.

Ceramic: These fillings are often made from porcelain and while they are both strong and match the rest of your teeth, they can cause some unnecessary wear and tear on surrounding teeth, particularly if the porcelain becomes too rough.

Glass ionomers: This isn’t one of them more common dental fillings; however, this glass and acrylic filling can be a great option for children whose teeth are still developing. Plus, these fillings have the ability to release fluoride, which can promote a healthier smile. However, these fillings only last about five years, on average.

You should also consider your dental insurance when you weigh the pros and cons of which dental filling you want to get. For some patients the cost of their filling can be a major factor in the decision-making process. If you have any questions about your upcoming filling don’t hesitate to call your Chehalis dentist today. We want to give you the smile that looks and feels best for you.