Tooth-colored fillings are safer for your health since they consist of resin or a plastic material. Silver fillings are typically not silver, but a metal alloy that includes several materials with mercury among them. There have been numerous health warnings regarding the overexposure to mercury, which is why pregnant women are warned to stay away from tuna. While many people believe amalgam fillings are perfectly safe, the data can be contradictory from study to study. If you want to avoid the risks that come with mercury exposure, select tooth-colored fillings, or replace your existing silver fillings.
Composite fillings offer several benefits compared to amalgam. They have a tooth-colored appearance, seamlessly blending with your natural teeth, while amalgam fillings are noticeable. Composite fillings also require less removal of healthy tooth structure during placement, which is advantageous. They typically cause less post-treatment sensitivity and are considered mercury-free, addressing concerns some individuals may have regarding exposure to mercury. These factors contribute to the increasing preference for composite fillings in modern dentistry.
Composite fillings are applied meticulously in a multi-step process. First, the dentist removes the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth. Next, the prepared cavity is thoroughly cleaned and primed. Then, the dentist layers the composite resin material, carefully shaping and sculpting it to match the natural contours of the tooth. Each layer is precisely cured with a specialized light. Finally, the composite filling is polished to achieve a smooth and natural appearance. This meticulous procedure ensures an aesthetically pleasing and functional restoration.
Difference Between Tooth-Colored or Composite Dental Fillings:
“Tooth-colored” and “composite” dental fillings are synonymous terms used to describe a type of dental restoration. Both refer to fillings made from a composite resin material that closely matches the color of natural teeth. These fillings are chosen primarily for their ability to provide a cosmetically pleasing result while effectively restoring the tooth’s function. They are versatile and can be used for various tooth restorations, providing a discreet and natural-looking solution.
The longevity of resin or composite fillings depends on multiple factors, including oral hygiene, dietary habits, and the location of the filling. On average, they can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Routine dental check-ups, meticulous oral hygiene practices, and avoiding habits that could place excessive stress on the filling, such as biting hard objects, contribute to extending their lifespan.
To maintain the appearance and durability of cosmetic fillings, it’s essential to adhere to specific care instructions. Regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing, are crucial for preserving the restoration’s aesthetics. Additionally, avoiding foods and beverages that may stain teeth helps keep the filling’s color consistent. Finally, refraining from chewing on hard objects and seeking prompt dental attention if any issues arise are important measures to ensure the long-term success of cosmetic fillings.
Discover the passion and commitment that drives our dental team
Dr. Adam Kwiatkowski, a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, has received multiple awards for his outstanding achievements in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He is a recipient of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists’ Pre-doctoral Student Achievement Award and a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society.
Dr. Hearne, originally from Las Vegas, was inspired to become a dentist at the age of 12 by a close family friend who was a renowned dentist. With a foundation in customer service and excellence from his early career in the hotel industry, Dr. Hearne was further inspired to become a compassionate caregiver for his patients after the passing of his younger brother to cystic fibrosis at the age of 7.
I was born in Ogden, Utah and always knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. After serving an LDS mission in South Africa and getting married, I studied biology at Weber State University and attended the prestigious Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. There, I received multiple awards for clinical excellence before settling down in St. George with my family.
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