The facts on fillings: Amalgam vs. resin composite

Dental fillings in Highland Village, TX are useful for treating dental decay and cavities. The decayed portion of the tooth is required to be removed which needs to be filled. Most dentists recommend amalgam and resin composite dental filling and both these fillings have their own pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look.

What Are Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam fillings are also popularly known as silver fillings. It is a combination of silver, copper, mercury, and tin. Mercury consists about half of the compound and helps in binding the metals towards offering strength and durability. Mercury forms a safe and stable compound when mixed with other compounds.

Pros and Cons of Amalgam Fillings

Advantages

• Amalgam fillings are a proven technique and have been used for over a century.
• Amalgam fillings are cheaper and economical compared to resin composite fillings.
• Amalgam fillings are highly durable and with proper care can last between 10 to 15 years.

Disadvantages

• Amalgam fillings are easily visible to others.
• Some people can be sensitive to certain metals present in the amalgam fillings.

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What Are Resin Composite Fillings?

Resin Composite fillings are made from plastic and ceramic compounds. As these resins mimic the natural appearance of the teeth, these the resin composite fillings easily blend in within your teeth. Resin Composite fillings are also popularly known as tooth-colored fillings or white fillings.

Pros and Cons of Resin Composite Fillings

Advantages

• Resin Composite fillings easily blend within the teeth and are almost impossible to detect while talking or eating.
• Resin Composite material easily bonds with the surface of the teeth.
• Using resin composite filling requires minimal removal of the teeth, as a result of this requires lesser drilling.

Disadvantages

• Resin Composite fillings require regular replacement as they are not as durable as amalgam fillings.
• The process of using composite filling requires longer time duration compared to amalgam fillings.

Dental fillings can aid in treating dental decay and preventing the decay from spreading further. To know which type of dental filling is suitable for your dental needs and budget, schedule an appointment with Campbell & Williams Family Dental to have your teeth examined and cavities filled.

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