For individuals with minor cracks, chips, or fractures above the gum line, fillings are the ideal, non-invasive solution for restoring the strength of the tooth and the appearance of the overall smile. Traditionally, fillings have been made of a silver amalgam, a mixture containing several different types of metals. In recent years however, composite, or resin fillings, have become a popular alternative. However, when faced with the need for a filling, which type of material is best for your smile?
Amalgam Fillings
Traditional silver fillings consist of silver, tin, and copper bound by mercury. As a result, this final component makes up about 50% of the filling. Given the strength of these components, silver fillings are highly durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for filling small cavities.
However, there are several negative implications associated with silver fillings. From an aesthetic perspective, amalgam fillings contrast against the whiteness of teeth and can cause treated teeth to take on a greyish appearance.
Furthermore, as amalgam fillings are made of metal, they do have the tendency to expand and contract when exposed to cold or hot temperatures. Not only can this be unpleasant for the patient to experience, but it also opens the door for bacteria to enter the inner pulp that would normally be shielded by the filling. Additionally, this tendency to expand and contract can also crack the tooth, requiring more extensive restorations in the future.
Composite Fillings
Also known as white fillings or resin fillings, composite fillings are made of a non-metal, tooth colored resin that contains acrylic plastics, quartz fillers, and porcelain. As a result, these fillings blend in seamlessly with the rest of the tooth, eliminating the greyish tinge often left by metal fillings.
Since composite fillings do not contain any metal, they do not expand. Not only does this provide patients with less discomfort than traditional fillings, but it also eliminates the risk of the tooth cracking unexpectedly. Additionally, as composite fillings are bonded to tooth, there are limited opportunities for bacteria or decay to damage the pulp within the tooth.
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the level of mercury found in amalgam fillings. While this level has been deemed safe by the American Dental Association, some patients feel more comfortable having their metal fillings replaced with non-metal composite fillings.
Restorative Options in Fairfield
At Thomas Toolson, DDS, we have found metal-free fillings as well as porcelain crowns to be the ideal solutions for varying restorative procedures. To learn more about the benefits of composite fillings and non-metal fillings, please contact ouor office to schedule an appointment.