Glass ionomer fillings (GICs) are a type of dental filling that plays a special role in modern dentistry due to their unique properties and versatility. Developed in the late 20th century, these fillings have been extensively used for their compatibility with the human body and ability to release fluoride, allowing it to have the added benefit of further protecting the tooth. Let’s take a look at glass ionomer fillings:

Amalgam fillings, commonly known as silver amalgam or silver fillings, are one of the oldest dental filling materials and have been a staple in restorative dentistry for centuries. Despite the emergence of newer materials, such as glass ionomer fillings and resin fillings, amalgam remains widely used due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. This article will explore what silver amalgam is, its benefits and drawbacks, and the steps in the procedures for receiving a silver filling.

When you encounter a dental emergency such as a lost filling or fractured cusp, or if you’re experiencing unresolved discomfort or sensitivity after a filling, your dentist might recommend a temporary tooth filling using Intermediate Restorative Material (IRM). This is also known as a medicated filling for reasons we will go into later in this article. Understanding what IRM is and its benefits can help you feel more at ease with this temporary solution and help you decide if you should get it.