Dental fillings are a commonplace procedure, used to fill cavities that have formed in teeth. Two common types of dental fillings are amalgam and composite. However, there has been some debate over which type of dental filling is better - amalgam or composite? We will explore the pros and cons of both amalgam and composite dental fillings so that you can make an informed decision about which type of filling is right for you. We'll also discuss why composite fillings are better than amalgam.
Do you need dental fillings in Idaho Falls, ID? At Taylorview Dental, we provide durable, high-quality dental fillings to our patients. We understand that no two patients are alike, which is why we offer different filling types to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for an amalgam filling or a composite filling, our team can help. Let us evaluate your smile and recommend the best type of dental filling for you.
When a cavity occurs, many people rush to get the tooth affected removed. While this can get rid of the painful problem, it comes with some undesirable effects. One, it can leave a gap in your smile, making you conscious of your appearance. Secondly, the tooth adjacent to the gap can start shifting and cause more oral problems in the future. Also, a gap can make it difficult to eat and speak properly.
Dental fillings help to avoid all these problems by restoring the shape, function, and appearance of a tooth. The best part is that the procedure is simple, painless, and relatively affordable. A dentist will start by numbing the area around the tooth to be filled. They will then clean out the cavity to remove any decay. Once the tooth is clean, they will place the filling material and shape it to match the rest of your tooth. The whole process usually takes less than an hour to complete.
With a well-filled tooth, you can go about your life without worrying about how the tooth will look or feel. You also don’t have to worry about pain when eating or drinking hot or cold beverages.
Now that you know how important dental fillings are, it’s time to look at the different types of fillings available. As we noted earlier, amalgam and composite are two of the most common types of dental fillings. Here is a closer look at each type:
These fillings are also commonly referred to as metal or silver fillings. They are made of a mixture of different metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are known for their durability. They can last for up to 15 years with proper care.
The main advantage of amalgam fillings is that they are very strong and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. They are also very affordable, which makes them a good option for patients who are on a budget. However, amalgam fillings do have some disadvantages. One is that they are not very aesthetically pleasing, so they are not ideal for use in visible areas of the mouth. They can also cause irritation in some people. There is some concern that the mercury in amalgam fillings can cause allergic reactions.
Composite fillings are also known as tooth-colored fillings. They are made of a mixture of glass or quartz filler and plastic resin. This type can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, making it a good option for use in visible areas of the mouth.
Composite fillings have several advantages. One is that they are much more aesthetically pleasing compared to amalgam fillings. They can also be used to repair small chips or cracks in the teeth. Composite fillings are also very strong and can last for many years with proper care. However, composite fillings do have some disadvantages. One is that they are more expensive than amalgam fillings. They are also not as long-lasting as amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced more often.
When having a filling, you may want it to look as natural as possible, so that it will be less visible. This is where composite fillings have the advantage over amalgam fillings. They can match your teeth's natural color, which means it won't be easy for someone else to see them. That way, you can keep smiling without feeling self-conscious about your teeth. You'll have a filling that blends in and looks more natural.
Hopefully, you've understood the pros and cons of both amalgam and composite and why composite fillings are better than amalgam. If you're still not sure which type is suitable for you, we're open to your questions here at Taylorview Dental in Idaho Falls, ID. We can evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate type of dental fillings. We can also install the filling for you, with our durable materials lasting for as long as 15 years. Call (208) 522-4491 to book an appointment.
