Getting a dental filling is a secure plan to protect your teeth from decay. There are several types of dental fillings, but amalgam vs. composite fillings are the most often compared. So, are you wondering which is the best between amalgam and composite fillings? The Beyond32 Dental team will help you choose the perfect fit for you. Meanwhile, continue to read this article to know the different pros and cons of the two fillings.

Amalgam vs. Composite fillings: What is The Difference?

Amalgam Fillings

Dental amalgam, also known as silver amalgam or mercury fillings, combines different metals such as silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Roughly half of the amalgam is comprised of mercury. The mercury ties the metals together to improve the strength and sturdiness of the amalgam. Keep in mind that when mercury combines with different metals, it forms a stable and safe compound. This strategy has been used for decades.

Because of its efficiency and cost, silver amalgam is still the restorative material of choice in some areas of the world. However, there are some concerns over applying silver amalgam fillings, identifying with the mercury discharge in the body and the environmental effect following its removal. Composite resin fillings become an aesthetic option to silver amalgam, and the improvement of its mechanical properties to restore posterior teeth is also becoming remarkable.

Composite Fillings

Otherwise called tooth-colored fillings or white fillings, composite resin fillings blend plastic and ceramic compound. Whenever complete adequately, these fillings will blend in with the tooth being restored. An experienced dentist will be able to recreate the natural forms and shade of your tooth using composite resin fillings. That is why composite fillings are receiving more attention as a restorative choice.

Moreover, during a time where aesthetics is at the front line of numerous medical and dental treatments, composite resins have become an excellent option to the following:

• metal fillings
• overly destructive crown
• veneer alternatives

Patients have the choice to walk into their dental appointment and leave with an improved smile on the same day.

Amalgam vs. Composite fillings: Which is Better?

Knowing which is better between amalgam vs. composite fillings will help you make a quick decision. Here are the pros and cons of the two dental fillings.

Advantages of Amalgam Fillings

• The dentist used silver amalgam restorations for over a century
• The cost of amalgam is far less than composite fillings
• These fillings are strong and sturdy and can last between 10 to 15 years
• Amalgams are usually faster to place so that you will be in a dental chair for a less time

Disadvantages of Amalgam Fillings

• Generally, amalgam fillings are visible even if you are not a dentist.
• A few individuals create minor sensitivities or allergies to amalgams.
• Amalgam fillings have limited support in large cavities. They have no bonding properties to the tooth. Instead, it is held by compression. This condition can lead to cracks of the tooth over the long haul.
• Using amalgam filling for several years can leave a dark tattoo in the part of the gum or cheek that is in contact with it.

Advantages of Composite Fillings

• Composite resins can coordinate with the shade of your teeth completely.
• Compared to amalgam fillings, composites stick and chemically bond with the tooth surface.
• These dental fillings have adhesive components, which eventually implies less requirement for tooth removal.
• In some instances, composite fillings can transform your smile without using a drill on the natural tooth structure. Its holding properties permit dentists to make new smiles, accomplishing desired changes in the shape and color of the teeth after treatment.

Disadvantages of Composite Fillings

• Several studies stated that composite fillings’ average lifespan could last between five to seven years before requiring to be replaced. Nonetheless, there are numerous factors at work that influence the life span of composite restorations, such as oral hygiene practice, patient diet, and habits.
• Composite fillings take more time to put than silver amalgam. Moisture control is demanding, and the method can be very procedure sensitive.
• Typically, composite fillings cost more to place compared to amalgam fillings.
• Various dentists will produce different outcomes with composite resin fillings. The creative component of putting composites is critical to emulating a tooth.

Being aware of all the facts about these two restorative choices will help you identify the best treatment plan for your condition. Nevertheless, it is always good to listen to the advice given by your dentist in regards to which treatment alternatives are ideal for you.