Materials Used for Tooth Restorations
This information is provided to help you make decisions about selection of materials as tooth restorations in your mouth. Many types of metals are used in dentistry for the replacement and rehabilitation of oral structures. Most of these metals are considered to be inert when placed in the body, while others have been criticized as potential toxins as allergens. Plastics and ceramics are used commonly as tooth restoratives, and although controversial, these have not been shown to have adverse biological responses. The following information will help you to make decisions about the type of tooth restorations you prefer to be placed in your mouth.
RESTORATION OF MISSING PARTS OF SINGLE TEETH (FILLINGS):
Silver amalgam has been used since the 1800s for tooth restorations. This alloy contains silver, tin, copper, zinc, and about 50 percent mercury. It has been highly successful, but unsightly. Use of mercury in the body has been criticized since its inception, but amalgam use is still supported strongly by the American Dental Association and other health groups worldwide. A few people in the overall population may be allergic to the elements in silver amalgam. You have several other options for restorations (fillings).
YOUR MATERIAL CHOICES FOR DENTAL RESTORATIONS (FILLINGS):
A. Silver Amalgam. Average longevity about 15 years, silver colored, low-moderate initial cost. Best used in small-to medium-sized restorations of posterior teeth (premolars and molars).
B. Gold inlays and onlays. Average longevity 20 years or longer, gold colored, moderate to high initial cost. May be used in most locations where metal is not displayed to an objectionable level.
C. Resin/Plastic (may be called composite). Average longevity 10-15 years, tooth colored, moderate to high cost. Best used in small-to medium-sized restorations for front or back teeth. Considered at this time to be comparable to silver amalgam’s service potential.
YOUR CHOICES FOR CROWNS (CAPS) OR FIXED PROSTHESES (BRIDGES);
- Metal alone. High-noble, noble, or base metal. Average longevity 20 years to life, gold or “silver” color, moderate to high initial cost. May be used in any area where metal display is not objectionable.
- Porcelain fused-to-metal. Average longevity 10-20 years, tooth colored, moderate to high initial cost. May be used in any area where extreme biting stress is not present, and patient does not have severe tooth grinding habit.
- All-Ceramic. These restorations are constructed from ceramic alone. Average longevity is under study, moderate to high initial cost. All-ceramic fixed prostheses may be used in many clinical situations. These materials are being improved constantly, and it is expected that they will eventually replace metal-containing restorations.
- Resin/Plastic. These restorations may be used for single crown or some bridges. Average longevity is several years. Success has been reported up to 5 years.
We will inform you about the best type of tooth restoration for your mouth, and we welcome your questions. Thanks for helping us to make these important decisions.