Amalgam vs. Composite Fillings: What You Need To Know
Dental fillings are a common and reliable solution for filling cavities and stopping tooth decay. Dentists have been performing tooth fillings in one way or another for thousands of years. Today, though, there are two main types of dental fillings patients can get: amalgam and composite. While both are durable ways to fill a cavity and prevent further issues, there are a few key differences between the two procedures. Explore all you need to know about amalgam versus composite fillings with this rundown.
Amalgam Is the Traditional Choice
Amalgam fillings have been around longer than composite fillings. Amalgam fillings are metal, which means they stand out against the tooth. It’s also important to note that, while ADA-approved, amalgam fillings contain trace levels of mercury that can present a potential health hazard. However, amalgam fillings last a long time and are easy to maintain, making them a reliable albeit less aesthetically pleasing choice for cavity fillings.
Composite Fillings Are an Advanced Option
One of the most important things to know about amalgam versus composite fillings is that composite fillings are a more modern and advanced solution. Composite fillings consist of a tooth-colored resin material that allows them to blend in seamlessly with your smile.
Unlike amalgam fillings, there are no traces of mercury or other hazardous materials in composite fillings. Composite fillings are also very durable, and the resin material creates a strong and lasting bond to the tooth, preventing the filling from popping loose over time. Furthermore, composite fillings don’t expand or contract with temperature the way metal fillings can.
Finding the Best Restorative Dental Care
When you experience tooth decay, you need a safe and reliable solution to preserve your oral health and make you feel good about your smile again. Composite fillings are advanced dental fillings. That’s why Woodstock Smiles offers composite dental fillings as part of our restorative dental services. Visit us today to learn more about how composite fillings can help your smile look and feel good again.