Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings: Compare the Differences
When treating cavities, you can’t do better than composite fillings when they are still small areas. These tooth-colored fillings treat decay discreetly by blending in with the color of your teeth. Composite resin fillings offer a viable alternative to amalgam metal fillings for protecting your teeth from decay. These FAQs, compiled by Drs. John Palmer, Debra Adams, and Ashley Hurley from Palmer Distinctive Dentistry in Greenville, South Carolina, explain more about composite fillings to help you decide if they’re the right cavity treatment for you.
What are composite fillings?
Composite fillings are dental restorations composed of plastic resin material mixed with powdered glass. White fillings are mainly used for treating cavities. However, they can also be used as dental bonding to improve your smile’s aesthetics.
How are composite fillings placed?
After removing the decay with a laser(so you do not have to be numb in most cases), Drs. Adams and Hurley will apply the resin material in layers to your tooth, conforming to its shape and structure. Each layer is dried with a special light to harden it in place. Once the last layer is applied, we’ll make the necessary adjustments to improve your bite and polish your tooth, leaving it shiny and smooth. On average, composite filling treatments take 30 minutes or less to complete.
How do composite fillings work?
The resin material bonds directly with the enamel of your tooth, sealing out bacteria that can cause decay. At the same time, the filling reinforces your tooth structure to keep it from cracking when you bite and chew. White fillings can be used on both front and back teeth due to their ability to withstand the pressure of biting and chewing. Using composite fillings, our team can restore your decayed tooth like new.
Before and After Actual Patient Result
Composite vs amalgam fillings: What’s the difference?
Silver amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of different metals and contain silver mercury. When you smile, these gray-colored metal fillings stand out.
Composite fillings are metal and mercury-free, making them a safer choice for people with metal allergies. The resin mixture can be matched to the exact color of your natural teeth to make your filling as inconspicuous as possible when you smile.
Amalgam fillings require extensive drilling and removal of the natural tooth structure to make room for the filling, leaving teeth weak and fragile.
Composite fillings bond directly with your tooth, so less tooth structure has to be removed. Your tooth will retain more of its natural structure for support. Composite fillings are also less likely to leak or come loose.
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How long do composite fillings last?
By taking good care of your teeth, brushing and flossing diligently, and getting dental cleanings, your composite fillings can last up to 10 years before needing to be replaced. Drs. Adams and Hurley also recommend you stop chewing on ice and avoid hard, chewy, and sticky foods.
Where can I find a mercury-free dentist near me?
Drs. Debra Adams and Ashley Hurley from Palmer Distinctive Dentistry are your go-to dentists for mercury-free cavity treatments in Greenville, SC. Call us at (864) 332-4113 for all your dental care needs.
