How to Choose the Right Dental Filling in Palos Park, IL

Posted on by Aalyiah Heath

Choosing the right dental filling comes down to six factors:

  • Budget
  • Lifestyle
  • Cavity size
  • Cavity location
  • Strength or appearance
  • Sensitivity and/or allergies

 

Choosing a dental filling mainly for appearance over strength for example, might backfire.

Sure, an invisible filling might be great at first, but if you have to redo a filling every 6 months, now the cost becomes an issue.

Worse, if your back teeth need filling and you go with a softer resin material, chewing becomes a problem.

So here’s a quick guide on how to properly choose the right dental filling, along with the several types you should talk to your local dentist about.

Types of Dental Fillings

1. Composite Resin Fillings

What it is:

Composite resin fillings are a tooth-colored mixture made of plastic and fine glass particles. It bonds directly to your tooth and is sculpted to match your natural shape.

Strengths:

  • Aesthetically pleasing – blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
  • Conserves tooth structure – requires less drilling than metal fillings.
  • Versatile – great for both cavities and cosmetic reshaping.

Weaknesses:

  • Not as durable on large molars under heavy pressure.
  • Can stain over time (think: coffee, red wine, smoking).
  • Slightly more prone to wear and chipping than metals.

Best for:

  • Patients who value appearance, especially for front teeth.
  • Teens, young adults, professionals — basically anyone who smiles often and wants it to look good.
  • Ideal for small to medium cavities in visible areas.

2. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

What it is:

A mix of silver, tin, copper, and a tiny bit of mercury (safely bound). Amalgam fillings have been around for 150+ years, and are commonly used for pediatric dentistry cases.

Strengths:

  • Extremely durable – can withstand chewing forces for over a decade.
  • Budget-friendly – one of the most affordable options.
  • Quick placement – easier to work with, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Weaknesses:

  • Not aesthetic; their silver color stands out.
  • May expand/contract with temperature, possibly leading to cracks over time.
  • Contains mercury (though minimal and considered safe by the ADA).

Best for:

  • Patients who don’t mind the look — think back molars or hidden areas.
  • Those needing a long-lasting, cost-effective fix.
  • Great for children, seniors, or patients with large cavities.

3. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain)

What it is:

A custom-made porcelain inlay or onlay that’s bonded to your tooth. Typically fabricated in a dental lab or via CAD/CAM technology.

Strengths:

  • Stunning appearance – closely mimics enamel’s translucency.
  • Stain-resistant – doesn’t discolor like composite.
  • Durable – can last up to 15 years or more.

Weaknesses:

  • Higher cost – you’re paying for custom craftsmanship.
  • Brittle under heavy pressure if the fit isn’t perfect.
  • More time-consuming – may require multiple visits.

Best for:

  • Patients seeking the most natural look for visible teeth.
  • If you prefer a durable, cosmetic fix for larger cavities.
  • Ideal for smile makeovers, inlays, and onlays.

4. Gold Fillings

What it is:

A mix of gold and other metals like copper. Typically lab-created and cemented into place.

Strengths:

  • Incredible durability – lasts 20+ years, resists wear like a champ.
  • Biocompatible – gentle on gum tissue.
  • Doesn’t corrode or crack.

Weaknesses:

  • Very noticeable – there’s no hiding gold.
  • Expensive – premium material, premium price.
  • Requires at least two visits.

Best for:

  • Patients who prioritize function over form.
  • Bruxers (teeth grinders) and heavy chewers.
  • Great for back molars where strength matters more than appearance.

5. Glass Ionomer Fillings

What it is:

A translucent mixture of acrylic and a specific type of glass that chemically bonds to teeth.

Strengths:

  • Fluoride content helps prevent further decay.
  • Bonds chemically – no need for extensive prep.
  • Gentle on gums – great for sensitive areas.

Weaknesses:

  • Less durable especially under chewing pressure.
  • More opaque; doesn’t blend as well with enamel.
  • Wears down quicker than other materials.

Best for:

  • Children’s primary teeth.
  • Small cavities near the gumline or root surfaces.
  • Patients with high decay risk who need fluoride support.

Quick Guide for Fillings: 

You Want… Your Best Bet
A natural smile in front teeth Composite or Ceramic
Long-lasting strength in molars Amalgam or Gold
Fluoride support or for kids Glass Ionomer
The ultimate aesthetic fix Ceramic
A strong, affordable option Amalgam
Something fancy and durable Gold

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Filling: 

Here’s the truth: choosing the right dental filling is not about picking the fanciest or most expensive option.

At Sheehan Dental Palos Park, we believe it’s about choosing what’s right for your tooth, your lifestyle, and your peace of mind.

Let’s walk you through the key factors — no jargon, no pressure, just clarity.

1. Location of the Cavity

“Where is the damage located?”

Why it matters:

  • Front teeth are more visible → you’ll want something that looks natural.
  • Back teeth do the heavy chewing → you need strength, not just looks.

Don’t make this mistake:

Choosing a pretty filling (like composite) for a back molar under heavy chewing pressure. It might look great… until it chips.

Front tooth? Go with ceramic or composite. Back tooth? Prioritize durability.

2. Strength vs. Appearance

“Do you care more about how it looks or how long it lasts?”

Why it matters:

Some materials (like gold or amalgam) last forever but are very visible. Others (like composite or ceramic) blend in beautifully but may wear out faster in high-pressure areas.

Don’t make this mistake:

Obsessing over looks and ignoring function. A good-looking filling that keeps falling out isn’t doing anyone any favors.

Match material to function — not just face value.

3. Budget & Insurance

“Are you paying out-of-pocket, or do you have dental insurance?”

Why it matters:

Some fillings (like composite and ceramic) can cost (significantly) more and may not be fully covered by insurance, especially for back teeth.

Amalgam is often the cheapest, and widely covered.

Don’t Make This Mistake:

Not asking about costs up front. Patients get sticker shock or (regrettably) choose a pricey option they didn’t need.

Always ask, “What does my insurance cover — and what’s the best value for my needs?”

4. Size of the Cavity

“How much of the tooth is damaged?”

Why it matters:

  • Small cavities? You’ve got more flexibility — composite, glass ionomer, etc.
  • Big cavities? You need something stronger like amalgam, gold, or even an inlay or dental crown

Don’t Make This Mistake:

Trying to use a lightweight material on a big job. Think of it like patching a hole in a roof with a Band-Aid.

A bigger cavity requires a stronger solution. Always.

5. Sensitivity or Allergies

“Do you react to metals, or have sensitive teeth?”

Why it matters:

Some patients are sensitive to cold, heat, or even specific materials (like mercury in amalgam or metals in gold). Other materials like composite or glass ionomer may be gentler.

Don’t Make This Mistake:

Overlooking allergies or sensitivity and choosing based on price alone.

If you’re sensitive, let your dentist know — they can guide you to safer materials.

6. Your Lifestyle

“Do you grind your teeth? Drink coffee or wine? Smoke?”

Why it matters:

  • Grinding wears down fillings faster.
  • Coffee, wine, and tobacco stain tooth-colored fillings.
  • Athletes or people with high-stress jobs often clench/grind at night (even if they don’t realize it).

Don’t Make This Mistake:

Choosing a cosmetic filling, then unknowingly grinding it down in your sleep.

Be honest about your habits. It helps your dentist pick something that lasts.

Sheehan Dental’s Approach to The Right Filling

Step 1: Understand the Goal of a Dental Filling

A dental filling:

  • Repairs decay or damage in a tooth.
  • Prevents further decay or infection.
  • Restores chewing function and appearance.

The right filling depends on a few factors:

  • Location of the cavity (front vs. back tooth)
  • Size and depth of decay
  • Aesthetic concerns
  • Budget
  • Insurance coverage
  • Allergies or sensitivities

Step 2: Know Your Filling Material Options

There are five main types of dental fillings. Let’s break them down and compare using key metrics:

Type of Filling Appearance Durability Cost Ideal Use Pros Cons
Composite Resin Tooth-colored Moderate $$ Front & visible teeth Aesthetic, bonds to tooth Less durable than metal
Amalgam (Silver) Silver-colored High $ Back teeth, deep cavities Long-lasting, affordable Noticeable, contains mercury
Ceramic (Porcelain) Tooth-colored High $$$ Visible teeth, cosmetic use Very natural look, stain-resistant Can be brittle, more expensive
Gold Gold-colored Very High $$$$ Molars, patients with grinding Strong, doesn’t corrode Very noticeable, high cost
Glass Ionomer Tooth-colored (opaque) Low to Moderate $–$$ Baby teeth, small fillings Releases fluoride, good for kids Weaker, wears down over time

Step 3: How to Choose – A Dentist’s Advice by Situation

If you want the best look:

Composite or Ceramic is ideal. It’s great for front teeth and people who care about matching their natural smile.

If you want strength for chewing surfaces:

Amalgam or Gold. These are your workhorses, especially in molars.

For kids or if you have cavities at the gumline:

Glass Ionomer is gentle and fluoride-releasing, great for younger patients or non-load-bearing areas.

If you want something long-lasting:

Gold wins. It can last 20+ years with proper care. Amalgam also performs well durability-wise.

Step 4: Local Chicago Considerations

  • Insurance coverage: Most basic insurance plans still cover amalgam and composite, but not always ceramic or gold. Be sure to check with your local dentist beforehand or during your consultation.
  • Cold winters: Some materials (like composite) are slightly more sensitive to temperature changes.
  • Grinding or clenching habits (bruxism): Consider gold or amalgam for strength.
  • Cosmetic-conscious patients: Opt for composite or ceramic.

Each material has its place. When my patients ask, “What’s best for me?” — I tailor it to their specific tooth, their lifestyle, and their budget.

If you’re still unsure, I always recommend:

  • Get a full evaluation from your local/family dentist
  • Ask for a breakdown of what your insurance will cover
  • Discuss your daily habits (grinding, chewing patterns, aesthetic preferences)

Benefits of Choosing the Right Filling

1. Prevents Future Problems (and Costs)

The right filling seals your tooth properly, resists wear, and reduces the chances of:

  • Cracks
  • Infections
  • Secondary decay

Get it wrong? You might be looking at a root canal or crown down the line. A well-chosen filling = long-term savings and fewer drills in your future.

2. Restores Natural Function Without Worry

The best fillings feel like they were never there. You can:

  • Speak clearly
  • Chew confidently
  • Avoid temperature sensitivity

When matched correctly to your bite, a good filling becomes invisible in your daily life.

3. Protects Your Smile (Aesthetically + Structurally)

Especially for front teeth, choosing a tooth-colored filling like composite or ceramic means:

  • Confidence boost
  • Seamless integration with your smile
  • No obvious metal lines when you laugh

A good filling doesn’t just protect your tooth — it protects your self-esteem.

POST-FILLING CARE TIPS FOR LONG-TERM ORAL HEALTH

Because your filling’s job is only as good as the care you give it.

1. Brush Gently, But Consistently

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day.

Be gentle — especially right after your appointment — but don’t skip your routine.

2. Floss Daily (Yes, Really)

Flossing keeps the edges of your filling clean and prevents bacteria buildup.

Slide gently so you don’t dislodge a new filling — ask your dentist to demonstrate the right technique.

3. Avoid Hard Foods Right Away

Skip nuts, ice, hard candy, or crunchy chips for at least 24 hours — typically longer for amalgam or ceramic fillings.

Let the material settle and your bite adjust.

4. Limit Stain-Triggering Foods (if you chose composite)

Dark drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola can discolor composite over time.

Use a straw and rinse your mouth with water after sipping.

5. Check Your Bite

If your new filling feels “off” — like your teeth don’t line up properly — call your dentist.

An uneven filling can lead to jaw pain, headaches, or cracked fillings.

6. Keep Your Regular Dental Appointments

Twice a year is the gold standard. We check the filling, polish it, and catch early signs of wear.

Most fillings don’t fail suddenly — they wear down gradually. Routine checkups are your early-warning system.

Dental Filling Services Sheehan Dental Palos Park, IL

If you need an immediate dental filling or are looking for a replacement, call us at 708-928-8269 to schedule an appointment. Or, you can schedule a consultation right away through our contact form.