If you develop a cavity in one of your teeth, the best way to stop the spread of the decay will likely be with a filling. In the past, dentists often used a material called silver amalgam for this purpose. Nowadays, though, most practices favor a more modern alternative: tooth-colored fillings. Why are tooth-colored fillings superior, and why should you choose them if there is ever a question about which material should be used for your fillings? This blog post explains five reasons.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Mercury-Free
Traditional silver amalgam fillings contain up to 50% mercury. This element has raised concerns among both patients and health professionals; even breathing in its vapors may cause symptoms like headaches, tremors, and kidney issues.
Choosing tooth-colored fillings allows you to avoid exposure to mercury altogether. In fact, composite resin, the material used for tooth-colored fillings, is completely metal-free.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Look Better
You want your smile to look as natural and attractive as possible. Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your teeth because they can be matched to your existing enamel. Amalgam fillings, on the other hand, are a dark metallic color that stands out starkly against the teeth. They can even cause permanent gray discoloration on the surrounding dentition.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Respond Less to Temperature Changes
Metal fillings expand and contract in response to hot and cold temperatures. This movement can eventually cause cracks or weaken the surrounding tooth structure. Tooth-colored fillings, made from composite resin, do not react as strongly to temperature shifts. Your filling will stay stable and help preserve your tooth, especially if you frequently consume hot or cold foods and beverages.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Require Less Tooth Preparation
Dentists often need to remove a significant amount of healthy tooth structure to place an amalgam filling. Tooth-colored fillings, however, bond directly to the tooth and require minimal tooth preparation. You get to keep more of your natural tooth, which helps maintain its strength and structural integrity.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Less Likely to Leak
Silver amalgam fillings simply sit inside a cavity, which means that small gaps could eventually develop between the filling and the tooth. These gaps can allow bacteria to enter and cause further decay. Composite fillings form a tight seal with your tooth, reducing the risk of leakage and increasing the chances that you can keep your tooth for a lifetime.
Truly, tooth-colored composite resin fillings are a big step up from old-fashioned amalgam restorations! If your dentist uses this modern option, you can thank them for looking out for both your smile and your overall health.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Michael O’Brien is a highly skilled holistic dentist who places his patients’ overall health and wellness above all else. He is certified in safe mercury removal techniques, and he uses only biocompatible materials to restore teeth. If you are interested in learning more about how he and our Tulsa team may be able to serve you, contact our office at 918-477-9000.