Why Replace Your Silver Fillings with Composite?
Metal alloys have been used to fill patients’ damaged teeth for over 1,000 years. Although commonly referred to as a “silver” filling, an amalgam filling is actually an alloy of silver, mercury, tin, and other metals. Despite its continued use, there is a surge in popularity for the more natural looking composite filling. An increasing number of patients are requesting composite for their dental work, and some are even having their silver fillings replaced. If you require new fillings or desire a more aesthetically pleasing alternative, consider the benefits of using composite from a trusted Harrisburg cosmetic dentist at Silvers Family Dental Care.
What Is a Composite Filling?
Unlike amalgam, a composite filling is composed of synthetic materials. While different types of composites are used, they are all made of resin that is specifically created to be resilient and easily bonded to a tooth. These synthetic composites are also given near-perfect coloration, mimicking a tooth’s appearance to the point of being unnoticeable.
Composites are used primarily for filling cavities or cosmetic dental bonding. Whatever the application, the natural look and advanced properties of resin have made it a popular choice in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
Both amalgam and composite are viable materials for filling a tooth. However, the benefits of composite have led to its increased usage, especially as technology continues to make it stronger and longer lasting. Here are just a few reasons to replace your silver fillings with composite.
- A Natural Look: Aesthetically, there is no contest between amalgam and composite. The dark alloy of a silver filling contrasts with the white enamel of a tooth; the dental work is easy to spot. Composite resin, on the other hand, is created to blend in with a tooth’s natural color, and a range of color variations are produced to suit everyone. These fillings are virtually impossible to see, even up close. Furthermore, enamel can be molded into the tooth and etched, creating an identical look.
- Better Adhesion: When a tooth is filled with composite, the resin and enamel bond together. Unlike silver fillings, which simply fill space within a tooth, composite adheres to the tooth on a micromechanical level. The result is not only a better fit, but the composite helps strengthen the tooth by reinforcing and insulating it.
- Increasing Effectiveness: When first introduced, composites could not compete with the durability of silver fillings. This difference is quickly becoming less true. Each year, technology
- Less Drilling: A composite filling only requires as much drilling as is needed to replace the tooth’s damage. The bonding agent allows the filling to hold firmly wherever it is placed. A silver filling, on the other hand, requires extra drilling into the otherwise healthy area of a tooth, in order to shape it for the metal to hold securely. Why drill more than necessary?
If a tooth has been extensively damaged, dental crowns may be recommended instead of dental fillings.
Contact Us Today to Replace Your Fillings
If you’re interested in replacing your old silver fillings for a more natural appearance, contact us to schedule a consultation. Our patients in the Harrisburg area have benefited from Dr. Silver’s professional experience in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry, along with the best and safest technology available. Call or email us today!
