Today, with the advancement of technology in the field of dentistry, dental fillings are available in various types, each with its characteristics. Choosing the best dental filling depends on several factors such as strength, durability, beauty, and cost. In this article, Nutrident reviews four leading brands in the field of dental fillings, namely 3M ESPE, Ivoclar Vivadent, Kerr, and GC America, so that you can ultimately make the best decision.
Types of Dental Fillings
Types of dental filling materials
Dental fillings are generally divided into several categories:
• Amalgam: A combination of metals such as mercury, silver, tin, and copper that is highly resistant but less aesthetically pleasing to patients.
• Resin composite: Tooth-colored materials made of resin and ceramic particles and are very aesthetically pleasing.
• Glass ionomer: A type of filling that releases fluoride and is suitable for children’s teeth.
• Ceramic and porcelain: Very durable and beautiful materials that are very similar to tooth enamel but cost more.
Introducing the top brands of dental filling materials
Many brands produce and market dental filling materials, but among them there are only a few top brands that offer these products with the best quality. These brands include:
1. 3M ESPE
3M ESPE
This brand is one of the most famous companies in the field of dental materials and offers high-quality and durable composites. 3M ESPE filling materials are a good choice for people looking for long-lasting restorations due to their high strength and long lifespan. Also, the good color matching of these materials makes the fillings look completely natural.
Another advantage of this brand is its excellent polishability, which makes the tooth surface completely smooth and shiny after restoration. However, its higher price compared to some other brands may be a limitation for some patients. Also, for the best results, it requires high skill of the dentist.
2. Ivoclar Vivadent
Ivoclar Vivadent
This brand is very popular for producing filling materials that are at a high level in terms of aesthetics and harmony with natural teeth. Ivoclar Vivadent uses advanced technologies such as Tetric N-Ceram, which increases the gloss and strength of the fillings. If you are looking for restorations that look completely natural on the front teeth, this brand is one of the best choices.
In addition to beauty, the materials of this brand are also durable and resistant to wear. Of course, their use time is a little longer than some competitors and they also have a relatively high price, but in return, the final result will be very satisfactory.
3. Kerr
Kerr
The Kerr brand is another reputable manufacturer of dental filling materials that produces high-strength composites due to the use of new technologies. This brand offers filling materials that have the lowest shrinkage, so the likelihood of cracking and damage to the filling is reduced. Also, high resistance to pressure and abrasion makes this brand a good choice for back teeth.
One of the outstanding features of Kerr is that its materials reduce sensitivity after restoration. This is a big advantage for patients who feel pain and sensitivity after tooth filling. Of course, like many premium brands, its price is higher than economy brands and its technique requires high precision.
4. GC America
GC America
GC America is one of the most affordable yet high-quality brands in the field of dental materials. This brand mainly works in the field of advanced glass ionomers, which are suitable for children’s teeth and temporary restorations. One of the positive features of these materials is the release of fluoride, which helps prevent re-decay.
In addition, GC America materials have excellent adhesion to tooth structure and, in many cases, do not require complex preparation. Of course, they are less resistant to wear than resin composites and may change color over time, but they are a good choice for patients who are looking for a cost-effective and functional option.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best dental filling material depends on the patient’s condition, aesthetic and functional needs, as well as the desired cost. If durability and strength are important to you, 3M ESPE and Kerr are good options. If you are looking for aesthetics and color harmony with natural teeth, Ivoclar Vivadent is the best choice. For patients who need fluoride-releasing and cost-effective restorations, GC America is a good choice.