Tooth Fillings

a material composed of silica, a resin to help bind the material together and a photo-initiator (which means the material can be set hard on the spot with a special light source). Composite resins are used commonly today as they are tooth coloured and are bonded to the tooth which can mean less drilling of the tooth is required. Composite resin can be use on both front and molar teeth.

is a material made out of a silicate glass powder which is combined with a material called an ionomer. Glass ionomers form a chemical link with the tooth. They are often used in baby teeth or on non-biting surfaces of permanent teeth. Glass ionomers release fluoride so they can help to prevent further decay occurring in the area and help to re-mineralise the tooth surrounding the filling.

is a filling material that has been used for a long time in dentistry. Amalgam fillings are made by combining mercury and a silver alloy. Amalgam is a strong reliable material but has the disadvantage of being silver as opposed to white like composite resin or glass ionomer. At Cranbourne Road Dental Care we still use traditional amalgam fillings on occasion if it is the most appropriate filling material to be used. Any requests not to have an amalgam filling will be respected as some people do have concerns about amalgam containing mercury. Research into the safety of amalgam fillings has been carried out for over 100 years. Thus far no reputable controlled studies have found a link between amalgam and the purported medical problems.