White composite fillings provide significant aesthetic advantages over the more traditional silver amalgam fillings. The difference between the two fillings, however, is more than simply a question of colour.
Dentists are legally required to inform patients of the availability of white fillings and giving the option and the information about both filling choices, the vast majority of patients now choose to have white fillings.
While the main benefit of composite over amalgam fillings is superior aesthetics, they have a number of other advantages over traditional fillings.
1. Composite fillings can be made in a range of colours, ensuring that restoration work is almost impossible for others to detect.
2. White fillings are less likely to cause fractures to teeth, as they bond to the tooth and help maintain tooth strength.
3. If correct techniques are employed, composite-filled teeth are less heat sensitive than amalgam-filled teeth.
4. White fillings required less of the healthy tooth structure to be removed.
5. The mercury contained within ‘silver’ fillings is viewed as potentially toxic. Composites do not contain any mercury.
Given these advantages, why then are amalgam fillings still being used? The answer is simple: white fillings cost more and require additional time and expertise to insert. Many dental insurance companies won’t fund the difference in the cost. Choosing between composite and amalgam fillings is a simple decision between cost and aesthetics.
Raynesway Dental in Derby provide high quality white fillings and so if you have a tooth that needs filling and don’t want an unsightly ‘silver’ look in your mouth, contact us today for further information. Check out our testimonials to see just how highly past patients rate the quality of our work and their satisfaction with our service.
