If you’ve had a cavity filled in the past, there’s a good chance it was treated with amalgam. This silver-colored metal alloy has been used in dentistry for over 150 years because of its strength and malleability. It works, and it’s durable. But tooth-colored composite fillings have come a long way, and today, they’re generally the better option. Here are five reasons why you should ask for a tooth-colored filling for your next cavity.
1. They Blend Right In
The most obvious advantage of composite fillings is appearance. Resin, unlike metal, is fully customizable, so it can be color-matched to your natural teeth. That means once it’s placed, it’s basically invisible. If you often hesitate to smile because of the silver glint of metal, composite fillings are the way to go.
2. They Require Less Removal of Healthy Tooth Structure
Placing an amalgam filling requires your dentist to remove more of the surrounding tooth structure to create a shape that holds the metal in place. By contrast, composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, keeping more of your natural enamel preserved. Over time, this translates to healthier teeth and a lower risk of more extensive treatment down the road.
3. They Don’t Cause Temperature Sensitivity
One of the most bothersome issues with using metal as a filling is conduction. Metal reacts with heat and cold, which can make your teeth more sensitive to temperature changes.
Composite resin doesn’t have this problem. So, if you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, this alone can be a good reason to choose tooth-colored fillings—or even make a switch.
4. They’re Mercury-Free
Amalgam fillings contain trace amounts of mercury, which has been a concern for some patients for decades. While major dental organizations have said that amalgam is safe for most people, many aren’t convinced. Dental resin bypasses this conversation entirely. It contains no mercury and has proven to be a safe, effective alternative.
5. They Bond to the Tooth for Added Strength
Because composite resin chemically bonds to your tooth, it actually supports the remaining tooth structure rather than just filling the space. Amalgam fillings expand and contract with temperature changes over time, which can eventually cause small cracks in the surrounding enamel.
A bonded composite filling, on the other hand, distributes stress more evenly and is non-reactive, so it keeps its shape.
When you have a cavity that needs treatment, or older metal fillings you’d like to replace, a tooth-colored filling is worth a discussion. The results look better, feel better, and last for years with care.
About the Author
Dr. Laura Gramse graduated from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 1995 and has been serving the Springfield community for over 35 years. Today, she continues to build her skills as a member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society. If you need to restore your smile, Dr. Laura Gramse Family Dental Care is here to help. Contact one of our two convenient locations in Springfield and Palmer to schedule your consultation.