What is the difference between silver amalgam fillings and white composite resin? Should I have my amalgam fillings replaced?
Our dentists believe that composite fillings are better than traditional amalgams in many ways. Amalgams discolor, so when you smile or open your mouth, people will see the telltale black on the surface of your teeth. In contrast, composite fillings match the surrounding tooth structure, so they are undetectable to everyone but your dentist. Amalgams also expand and contract with temperature changes in your mouth, pushing your tooth apart over time. This damage can cause fractures, cracks or recurrent decay which may cause the need for a crown. Composite fillings are durable, made of a safe resin material which binds to the tooth and can be very long-lasting. If you have a broken tooth, our dentists may be able to repair your tooth with composite filling. If most of the tooth structure is broken, a crown may be recommended. For patients interested in replacing amalgam fillings with composite, schedule a consultation with one of our dentists.
