Glass Ionomer Fillings in Wilmington and Seaford, DE

Please note we may not offer this procedure at our Wilmington and Seaford dental practices. Call our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to learn more.

Protect Your Smile with Advanced Dental Restorations

Are you searching for a durable, fluoride-releasing filling option to restore your smile? Glass ionomer fillings are an innovative solution, offering chemical bonding to your tooth structure and added benefits like cavity prevention. Discover how this cutting-edge dental material can transform your oral health.

To schedule your consultation with Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, call our Wilmington, DE, dental office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford, DE, dental office at (302) 536-7589 today.

What Are Glass Ionomer Fillings?

Glass ionomer fillings are a modern dental restorative material that combines glass powder and polyacrylic acid to create a dental filling that bonds chemically to the tooth surface. This unique material is widely used for treating cavities, particularly in non-stress-bearing areas like front teeth or root surfaces, due to its fluoride-releasing properties.

Types of Glass Ionomer Fillings

Different types of glass ionomer fillings are tailored to specific dental needs, including:

1. Conventional Glass Ionomer: Self-cured and used for non-stress-bearing restorations, offering durability and fluoride release.
2. Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer: Combines traditional glass ionomer with resin-based materials, enhancing strength and aesthetics for visible areas.
3. Compomer (Composite-Glass Ionomer Hybrid): A hybrid material that blends the aesthetics of composite fillings with the benefits of glass ionomer for small to medium-sized cavities.

Common Uses of Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are versatile and can be used for:

• Root Surface Cavities: Ideal for treating decay caused by gum recession or root exposure.
• Pediatric Dentistry: Frequently used for baby teeth due to their ease of application and fluoride-releasing benefits.
• Small to Medium Cavities: Effective for repairing decayed teeth, especially in pediatric patients and permanent teeth.
• Non-Stress-Bearing Areas: Perfect for front teeth or areas that don’t endure heavy chewing.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Glass Ionomer Fillings

Advantages

• Natural appearance with translucency
• Fluoride release helps prevent tooth decay
• Minimal tooth preparation required
• Biocompatible and gentle on oral tissues
• Chemical bonding to tooth structure ensures a tight seal

Disadvantages

• Less durable than alternatives like composite resins or amalgam fillings
• Sensitive to moisture during placement
• Aesthetic limitations in highly visible areas

The Glass Ionomer Filling Procedure

Here’s what you can expect during your glass ionomer filling procedure:

1. Dental Examination: Your dentist will perform a thorough dental examination to diagnose and plan your treatment.
2. Tooth Preparation: Decayed areas are removed with minimal damage to the surrounding tooth.
3. Filling Placement: The glass ionomer material is mixed and applied to the cavity, bonding chemically to the tooth. Optional light-curing may be used for added durability.
4. Shaping and Polishing: The filling is sculpted to match the natural contour of your tooth for a seamless appearance.

Post-procedure, your dentist will provide oral hygiene tips to protect your filling and maintain its longevity.

Costs of Glass Ionomer Fillings

The cost of glass ionomer fillings ranges from $75 to $200 per filling, depending on factors such as the cavity’s size and location, your dental insurance coverage, and whether the filling is used on permanent teeth or baby teeth. Compared to composite fillings or amalgam fillings, glass ionomer fillings are often more affordable while providing additional benefits like fluoride release.