For a dental restoration like a filling or crown, different materials are available, including composite resin, amalgam, and ceramic. Continue reading to learn about the different materials available. Each material has its specific use case, benefits, and drawbacks.
Dental restoration materials
Before proceeding with a dental restoration procedure, the dentist will walk patients through the process involved and the materials to be used. The materials are often selected based on the patient's preference and the dental problem at hand. The types include:
Composite resin
Since they are highly malleable, adhere well to the surface of teeth, and are natural-looking, resin-based composites are desirable as a dental restoration material. Dentists can restore teeth and retain more of the tooth's structure than any other restoration material because the resin is so moldable. This ensures the restored tooth is both stronger and more natural-looking than it would be for other restoration procedures.
Composite resins have the disadvantage of not being suitable for all types of restoration processes, but they are an excellent alternative for filling or repairing a decayed or damaged tooth.
Amalgam
Amalgam is a metal alloy made up of liquid mercury, tin, copper, and silver. It has been used as a dental filler for decades but is becoming less common due to mercury toxicity concerns. Another factor in amalgam being less common nowadays is that it has a silvery appearance that doesn't fit natural tooth colors and can make teeth look discolored and aesthetically unappealing.
Ceramics
Dental ceramic is a common option for restorations such as crowns, veneers, and bridges because it is sturdy, durable, and attractive. Ceramic also has the advantage of being suitably colored to match the natural color of existing teeth.
Ceramic has the disadvantage of being more brittle than other materials. When it comes to using ceramic restorations for molars and incisors, strong material is needed to handle the stress of chewing and biting. The disadvantage is that this heavy-duty ceramic does not have the same natural appearance as lighter-weight ceramics with better aesthetics.
Gold
Gold is a long-lasting and sturdy material, making it a good choice for making fillings and crowns. Gold restorations, on the other hand, are highly conspicuous, so if a natural appearance is desired, gold is not the best option. For those who like the look of gold restorations, the metal's inherent durability and strength are benefits to consider.
Zirconia
This long-lasting material is made of a non-metallic substance extracted from a metal. It may seem perplexing, but it all boils down to the substance's chemical structure. The element, zirconium, is chemically changed, resulting in a long-lasting crystalline form that is no longer metallic.
In terms of durability and utility, zirconia is identical to composite resin. People usually make the choice between these two options based on aesthetics rather than functionality.
Are you in need of a dental restoration?
Choosing the right material for a dental restoration typically involves striking a balance between function and aesthetics, resulting in restorations that are both attractive and functional. Schedule a consultation with our dental office for suggestions to assist you in making the best decision possible.
Request an appointment here: https://pier210dental.com or call Pier 210 Dental Group at (530) 885-5696 for an appointment in our Auburn office.
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