Many people will get a cavity at some point in their lifetime, but why not get the best available option when they happen to you? Since cavities do not go away on their own and in fact get worse over time, fillings are necessary to save teeth. Dentists have used fillings to save literally billions of teeth from infection in the past century, and the technology continues to improve. While traditional amalgam fillings made from metals like copper, mercury, silver, and zinc have served well for quite a long time, they tend to stand out in a smile because of their dark grey color and can also pose other potential problems. Read on to learn about the benefits of opting for tooth-colored fillings instead.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Blend in with the Enamel
Tooth-colored fillings use a composite resin containing plastic and microscopic glass particles rather than metal. The result is a filling that can be molded to match the contours, color, and luster of natural teeth. It is unlikely that anyone will be able to tell that a tooth-colored filling is even there, compared to the unnatural appearance of a metal amalgam filling.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Good for Those with Metal Sensitivities
Metal allergies can not only limit your options in jewelry, but also in dental restorations. If a patient has a metal sensitivity, an amalgam filling can result in oral lesions or other unfavorable reactions. By using a tooth-colored filling, you can prevent any such discomforts by keeping metal out of the equation.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Create a Stronger Bond with the Enamel
No one wants to lose more of their natural tooth than they have to. Compared to an amalgam filling, the resin in a tooth-colored filling forms a stronger bond with enamel. This allows the dentist to maintain more of the existing tooth structure during the placement process, resulting in a better repair.
A tooth-colored filling is slightly more expensive and slightly less durable than one made from amalgam, but its longevity depends mostly on the patient’s oral hygiene and avoiding unfavorable oral habits that might compromise it. With proper care and upkeep, a tooth-colored filling can last for many years.
About the Author
Dr. Peter Hammes earned his DDS from the University of Illinois-Chicago before beginning his active-duty Navy career. There, he completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency involving rotations in specialty areas of dentistry like endodontics, orthodontics, oral surgery, and periodontics. His office provides services including general, pediatric, emergency, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including metal-free fillings. If you have concerns about cavities, contact his office online or dial (312) 624-8070.
