There are two main types of dental fillings. For many years, silver amalgam fillings were favored for their strength and durability. In more recent times, however, tooth-colored fillings in Branford, CT, have come into the spotlight. Which type of filling should you get to repair your smile? When you consider the following five advantages of tooth-colored fillings, your decision is likely to be an easy one.
They Look Better
The most noticeable difference between the two types of fillings is their appearance. Silver amalgam fillings are composed of a mix of metals, which means they are quite dark. It is easy for onlookers to spot them. Tooth-colored fillings, on the other hand, are made out of a flexible composite resin that a dentist can shade-match to blend in with the surrounding dentition. They help a person’s smile to maintain its natural appearance.
They Require Minimal Tooth Preparation
Amalgam fillings simply sit inside a cavity. Therefore, in order to place them securely, a dentist may have to remove a bit of healthy dentition. Less tooth preparation is necessary with tooth-colored fillings because the material actually bonds with the nearby tissue. This both ensures a tight seal and preserves as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
They Do Not React to Temperatures
Silver amalgam fillings expand and contract in response to extreme temperature changes. This can place much stress on the surrounding tooth structure. Plus, the metals that compose amalgam fillings conduct temperatures quite well, which means that increased dental sensitivity may occur. Tooth-colored fillings are free from these problems.
They Are Ideal for Patients with Metal Sensitivities
Silver amalgam fillings are usually composed of about 50% mercury, 25% silver, 14% tin, and 8% copper, along with trace amounts of other materials. If you have allergies or sensitivities to any of those metals, amalgam fillings may irritate your mouth. Conversely, tooth-colored fillings very rarely cause any type of allergic reaction.
They Are Mercury-Free
One of the biggest concerns that many patients have about amalgam fillings is their high mercury content. Mercury is known to be quite toxic. Although the American Dental Association maintains that amalgam fillings are safe, some individuals have reported a negative reaction to them. The vast majority of patients, as well as dentists, prefer to err on the side of caution and avoid mercury to the extent possible. Tooth-colored fillings are entirely without mercury.
Most people develop at least one or two cavities during their lifetime. The next time you encounter this dental issue, both your appearance and your oral health will benefit if you opt for a tooth-colored filling instead of an amalgam one.
Meet Our Practice
New Haven Dental Group has been serving our community for more than 40 years. At our Branford location, Dr. Dean Cloutier takes the lead in providing general dentistry services to our valued patients. He is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) and a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. Tooth-colored fillings are among the many services he offers. To learn more about Dr. Cloutier and our practice, contact us at 203-488-0091.