When do you choose amalgam over composite?
Your choice comes down to the location of the cavity. If the cavity is located at the back of the mouth, choose dental amalgam. In fact, your dentist will recommend you choose that in the first place. If the cavity is in the front teeth, choose composite fillings, as you do not want silver teeth.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an amalgam filling?
Amalgam fillings are relatively inexpensive when compared to other filling options. The dental work can be completed in just one visit. The fillings are very strong, which is especially important for back teeth that must withstand extreme bite forces.
Which type of fillings are better?
Silver fillings are the more durable option, and they are better for teeth that undergo a lot of force and pressure such as molars.
Can you put composite filling over amalgam?
More dentists are choosing composite fillings instead of amalgam for their durability, their ability to closely match the color of natural teeth, and especially for their mercury-free nature. Composite fillings restore strength to the tooth, protect from decay, and last up to twenty years.
What are the disadvantages of amalgam filling?
Amalgam fillings can fracture as they age, which also breaks the protective seal and can lead to decay. The metal in amalgam fillings can also cause unsightly dark gray stains on the teeth and gums.
Why is composite better than amalgam?
The composite filling is more popular than amalgam because it comes in a variety of shades that can match natural tooth color so aesthetically speaking this is preferred by many patients. This material is popularly used on front teeth. It bonds to the natural tooth chemically providing support in the process.
What is the difference between amalgam and resin filling?
The first difference is the most noticeable. Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored. Dentists match the color of the patient’s natural teeth to the color of the composite resin. While amalgam fillings consist of various metals, the fillings have a silver appearance.
Should you get an amalgam or composite filling?
1 Amalgam fillings are stronger than composite fillings. Amalgam fillings are often used on the back teeth because of their strength. Your back teeth absorb the most force when you bite down and/or chew. 2 Composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings. If you’re on a tight budget, amalgam may be your best choice.
How dangerous are amalgam fillings?
According to a plethora of scientific data, these amalgam fillings leach dangerous, toxic mercury into the bodies of everyone who has them. According to scientific research, both acute and chronic mercury exposure can cause adverse health effects during any period of development.
What are the disadvantages of amalgam fillings?
The main disadvantage of amalgam tooth fillings is the color. Most patients today prefer that the filling matches the tooth. However, amalgam fillings are still used by dentists. They are more economical, can be used in difficult to get to areas of the mouth, and are more resistant to decay around the filling edges than tooth colored fillings.
What are the pros and cons of amalgam?
Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of amalgam and composite fillings. Advantages of Amalgam. They are very durable and capable of lasting for over a decade or more with proper care. Disadvantages of Amalgam. Mercury levels in amalgam are deemed safe by the ADA but require more of the tooth structure to be removed. Advantages of Composite. Disadvantages of Composite.