After a dentist discovers dental decay, they may fill the removed area with a dental filling. Whether you require a new or replacement dental filling, it’s essential to consider your options. Dental fillings can be composed of several materials, but the two main types are amalgam (silver) and composite (white).
While the American Dental Association (ADA) currently approves of the use of both silver and white fillings, here are three factors to consider when choosing between them:
The main advantage of white fillings is that they are more aesthetically pleasing. Composite fillings are color-matched to the enamel so that they look seamless. In addition to filling cavities, dentists also use white fillings for cosmetic dental treatments, including filling gaps between teeth.
In contrast, amalgam fillings are a noticeable silver color. Amalgam fillings are not ideal for visible teeth, but dentists use them for teeth in the back of the mouth (molars and premolars). Additionally, metal fillings come with the risk of corrosion (rust) over time. Silver fillings can make the surrounding teeth appear gray and stain the remaining tooth structure.
Today, many dentists prefer composite fillings because they are metal-free. Composite fillings create a chemical bond with the enamel (surface of the tooth), so they do not change shape.
Conversely, amalgam fillings are composed of metal, including the controversial mercury. Mercury exposure is linked to health problems, such as central nervous system issues, hypertension, and endothelial tissues. Because of these potential risks, many dentists do not apply silver fillings anymore or replace existing ones. You should not get an amalgam filling if you:
As teeth decay, they weaken. Even after removing decayed structures, brittle teeth chip and crack more effortlessly than healthy teeth. In comparison to other types of fillings, a white filling requires less drilling. Composite fillings can strengthen teeth to virtually their original, natural sturdiness. When paired with a cavity prevention regimen, composite restorations are highly successful, long-lasting treatments at preventing further decay.
Before applying silver fillings, the dentist must remove more tooth structures than other types of fillings. In consequence, teeth with amalgam fillings are significantly weaker. After years of wear, teeth with silver fillings may develop deep fractures adjacent to the fillings and require major repair or replacement. Also, silver fillings aren’t bonded to the dental structure, so microscopic gaps exist between the filling and the treated tooth. This gap provides a pathway for bacteria to reach deep inside the tooth, which starts the decay process again and causes significant damage over time.
In summary, composite fillings provide superior beauty and biocompatibility. Also, white fillings save as much of the dental structure as possible. Dr. Payam K. Asadi replaces silver fillings with more aesthetically pleasing and safe composite fillings. He also uses white fillings to:
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