Since composite fillings are natural-looking, many patients prefer them to amalgam fillings. The former doesn’t include any mercury, which is another benefit for some individuals because mercury has hazardous effects.
However, patients may have been hesitant to adopt this option for big fillings or those on teeth with a considerable chewing outer layer that would be subjected to reprised stress in the past due to concerns about the longevity of composite fillings in Kissimmee. Fortunately, over the past few decades, composite filling materials have considerably improved in terms of longevity, letting your dentist use this choice in a range of decay circumstances.
Amalgam Fillings & Composite Fillings: How Are They Different?
It’s crucial to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each type of filling when you require one.
For both front and back teeth, composite fillings employ resin to create a natural appearance. These fillings are less long-lasting than amalgam fillings and may eventually need to be replaced. Although robust, inexpensive, and long-lasting, amalgam fillings tend to deteriorate with time and lose their aesthetic appeal. Additionally, they can harm sound tooth structure. Direct restorations, which encompass both varieties, are secure and suitable for filling in a single visit. Although amalgam fillings have been linked to bioaccumulation and mercury toxicity, dentists have been using them safely and successfully for many years.
If you have concerns about your amalgam filling, talk in-depth about the advantages and disadvantages of removal with your dentist near you.
What are Composite Fillings Made of?
Relatively talking, composite fillings look more natural. Due to its ability to be customized to match the colour of your teeth, anyone who glances in your mouth will not even notice the composite material.
However, what is that tooth-coloured substance? It consists of a plastic (acrylic) resin mixture that has been strengthened with glass filler powder. It is helpful for certain dental restorations, including:
- Fillings
- Veneer
- Inlays
- Crowns
Dental professionals occasionally utilize this composite resin material to fix or replace damaged or chipped teeth.
Advantages of Composite Tooth Filling vs Amalgam Fillings
A long-lasting substance that has replaced amalgam in dentistry is composite resin. These fillings can last a very long time if they are maintained appropriately.
In addition to their durability, dental composite fillings near you have several other benefits, including:
- They appear natural because they are tooth-coloured. Silver amalgam fillings may be highly obvious when you smile, which may lower your confidence.
- Compared to amalgam, they are safer and contain no potentially hazardous substances. Amalgam fillings are robust, but they also contain mercury, which is poisonous and worries a lot of people.
- They are effective at different stages of tooth decay.
- They are simpler to install. We can drill a smaller hole for your filling since composite fillings adhere strongly to your tooth enamel. Your teeth will remain stronger and healthier if you can keep more of your tooth enamel.
- In contrast to their amalgam predecessors, they don’t expand or contract in teeth. It is less likely to break or crack due to extreme heat or cold when composite resin is utilized. Because heavy amalgam grows and shrinks, our dentist in Kissimmee might need to make a wider hole in your tooth to place the filling.
Make an Appointment with Our Dentist to Learn More!
Are you looking to schedule a visit to receive a dental filling? Call our dental office today, and our staff here at Smile 101 will be able to help you select a date and time that works for you. They will also help you identify the best filling material for your needs.
With this restorative treatment, you’ll wake up every day with a smile that you love.