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Due to recent advancements in the field of restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Americans now have more choices than ever when it comes to dental fillings. Many dentists are now recommending the use of composite fillings over amalgam fillings to their patients. Determining which type filling is best has become one of the biggest controversies in dentistry today. When looking for dental care in Costa Mesa, CA, it is important to carefully research the pros and cons of each filling material to determine which one is right for you. Read the following guide to learn some important factors to consider when choosing between amalgam and composite fillings. Amalgam Fillings Most people refer to dental amalgam as silver fillings. Amalgam is composed of a mixture of mercury, silver alloy, tin, and copper metals. Dental amalgam is a strong and durable material that has been used to fill cavities for over 180 years. The following are some common advantages and disadvantages of amalgam fillings when compared to composite fillings: • Strength: Amalgam fillings are typically used to fill large cavities. Because dental amalgam is made from a variety of metals, it produces a very strong material that can withstand the pressure of the back teeth. • Longevity: Amalgam fillings last significantly longer than composite fillings. A recent study found that amalgams fillings lasted an average of 12 years, while composite fillings lasted only about 6 years. • Content: Amalgam fillings contain mercury. Although this type of filling does release a small amount of mercury into the body, it is not enough to cause health problems unless the patient is allergic to mercury. • Procedure: Because amalgam fillings do not bond to the teeth like composite fillings, they require the dentist to remove more healthy tooth structure in order to hold the filling in place. • Aesthetic appearance: Amalgam fillings are silver in appearance and very noticeable, which can be a deterrent for some patients. Composite Fillings Composite fillings, also called tooth-colored fillings, are made from a composite resin material that can be used to restore cavities and enhance the aesthetic appearance of the teeth. The following are some common advantages and disadvantages of composite fillings when compared to amalgam fillings. • Aesthetic appearance: Composite fillings are less noticeable than silver amalgam fillings. These fillings can be colored to match the exact shade of the tooth, creating a more appealing aesthetic appearance. • Strength: Composite fillings bond to the enamel of the tooth, which can help strengthen the tooth, protect it against breakage, and insulate it from excessive temperature changes. • Longevity: Composite fillings require the removal of less healthy tooth structure than amalgam fillings. Smaller fillings contribute to the strength of the tooth and the longevity of the filling. • Procedure: Composite fillings are more complicated and take longer to complete than amalgam fillings. This type of filling requires dental expertise in order to avoid shrinkage and moisture issues than can result in adverse results. • Cost: Composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings. Because filling a cavity with composite material takes longer, the price is often more expensive than the cost of an amalgam filling. Some insurance plans will not pay for composite fillings on the back teeth. • Content: Composite fillings contain Bisphenol-A, a chemical that can be toxic in large doses. However, the amount of Bisphenol-A released into the body from composite fillings is not large enough to cause health problems. Which Filling Material Should You Choose? The choice between amalgam and composite fillings often comes down to longevity, aesthetic appearance, price, and personal preference for many patients. Before receiving any type of dental care in Costa Mesa, CA, it is important to carefully research your options and consult an experienced dentist. My Vivid Smiles pride themselves on their commitment to dentistry and consistently providing their dental implant patients a level of service beyond what would reasonably be expected. Visit our page on http://www.myvividsmile.com/ to see our page today!
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