Evolution of Dental Fillings | Aesthetic Advances in Dentistry
In earlier days, we used to do fillings with amalgam materials, which were not aesthetically pleasing. Even though it has higher mechanical strength, it looks silver in color. Also, they used gold fillings.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Glass Ionomer Cement.
- Light Cure Composite.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings over Amalgam Fillings
- Esthetics.
- Loss of tooth structure is less compared to amalgam fillings.
- Increased strength and durability when compared to silver fillings.
Glass Ionomer Filling
It is a tooth-colored material available in powder and liquid form. But the disadvantage is that it can’t be used for front teeth. Even though it is a tooth-colored material, it has less strength when compared to light cure composite.
Procedure for GIC Restorations
The caries are completely excavated. The powder and liquid are mixed to get a non-sticky consistency, then it can be filled inside the cavity. The carving of the filling can be done once the material is set. It takes 1 hour for the initial setting and 8 hours for the final setting.
Light Cure Composite
It is a tooth-colored filling material that sets once the light passes through it. It is less conservative. The main advantage is that it sets immediately once the light passes.
Procedure for Light Cure Composite
The caries are removed completely. If the cavity is deep, the patient may feel sensitivity. So, local anesthesia can be administered if required for caries removal. If the cavity is deep, calcium hydroxide linear and glass ionomer bases are placed. The tooth has to be etched, and bond placed. The composite material is placed in increments and cured by light. Each increment has to be cured separately. Once the cavity is filled, the carvings can be done. High points have to be relieved.
Advantages of Composite
- Loss of less tooth structure.
- The material sets immediately once the light passes in the chair side itself.
- Natural-looking results.
Disadvantages of Composite
- Chances of discoloration over time or due to food colorants.
- Expensive when compared to amalgam fillings.
Indications of Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Midline diastema
- Fractured teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Crooked teeth