The outside of our teeth is a thin layer called enamel. A cavity forms when the protective enamel has worn away far enough to create a hole. This hole can lead to toothaches, infections, and tooth failure. A dental filling is a dental procedure done to fill the hole created by the cavity.

There are two common kinds of dental fillings: dental amalgams and dental composites. Both are great for repairing teeth.

Dental amalgams are shiny, metallic-looking fillings that are extremely long-lasting. If a large filling is needed, they tend to be the most effective, though that will be up to you and Dr. Greg Ortman. Dental amalgams use a mix of metals and a small amount of mercury as a binding agent to create a filling. The filling repairs cavities by preventing further decay. Dental amalgams have a been used and improved for more than a century, and therefore are even more effective today than in the past. Improved precision has greatly helped the effectiveness of amalgams.

Dental composites are composite fillings that mimic the natural look of your teeth. With a composite filling, your open smile will remain unaffected, as the filling blends in very well with its surroundings. A composite filling is metal-free and mercury-free. Though they are very durable, composite fillings can also be repaired many times over, if needed. This can happen without the need of having to remove the original filling, as is required with dental amalgams.

If you suspect that you have a cavity and need a filling,  meet with our team at Ortman Family Dentistry for an oral examination. Please call 765-447-0322 to schedule an appointment at our office in Lafayette, Indiana. Come on in to learn more about your options to get the bright and healthy smile you’ve always wanted.