Are All Dental Fillings the Same? You most likely heard about amalgam fillings and composite fillings if you’ve had your cavity filled. What sets them apart, and which one is safer for your teeth? Seeing an experienced dentist in South Edmonton will help you decide the right material according to your dental needs and comfort levels.
What Are Amalgam Fillings Made Of?
For more than a century, dentists near you have used amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings. These materials are a combination of mercury, silver, tin, and copper, making them very durable and cheap.
Advantages of Amalgam Fillings:
- Long-lasting and strong
- Ideal for large cavities in molars
- Cost-effective option
Some patients worry about mercury exposure, even though the amount is considered small and safe for most people.
What Makes Composite Fillings Different?
The composite fillings in South Edmonton are materials of recent times that are tooth-colored and consist of resin and glass particles. For the visible area (e.g., front teeth), these are perfect because their color matches that of a natural tooth.
Composite filling benefits:
- Natural appearance that matches your teeth
- Bonds directly to the tooth for added strength
- Mercury-free and biocompatible
- Quick and conservative placement process.
Composite fillings are a bit less strong than amalgam fillings. Many people find these fillings a more attractive, safe option, though.
Amalgam vs. Composite Fillings: What’s the Difference?
Here’s how these two types compare:
|
Feature |
Amalgam Fillings |
Composite Fillings |
| Material | Metal mixture (includes mercury) | Resin and glass particles |
| Appearance | Silver or grey | Tooth-coloured |
| Durability | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Safety | Contains mercury in trace amounts | Mercury-free |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Ideal Use | Back teeth with high pressure | Visible teeth or smaller cavities |
Are Composite Fillings Safer?
When comparing amalgam vs composite fillings, safety is a big issue. Mercury-free composite fillings do not lead to the emission of any metal vapors, and therefore, they have become preferred fillings. They attach directly to the tooth, preserving more of the natural tooth and reducing sensitivity.
What are the risks of Amalgam Fillings?
Despite being long-lasting, many patients experience allergies and mercury exposure related to amalgam. The amalgam filling risks are low for most people. Still, if you are pregnant, have kidney problems, or want to give your mouth a break from metal, we can replace them with composite fillings.
Why Choose Composite Fillings?
The composite fillings’ benefits go beyond aesthetics. Dental filling needs little drilling, strengthen weak teeth, and can be used for almost any cavity size. Additionally, they are more comfortable, and they look completely natural when you smile.
Which Type Should You Choose?
Choosing between dental filling types depends on your dental condition, budget, and personal preferences. A dentist can consider the options available to you and share the benefits and risks associated with each one, allowing you to enjoy successful oral health with satisfaction that lasts.
Keep Your Smile Safe and Beautiful—Schedule a Visit!
Protect your teeth with fillings that match your lifestyle and comfort. Schedule your personalized consultation today at Jagare Ridge Dental and discover the best way to restore your smile with care and confidence.
FAQs
- How long do composite fillings last?
If a person visits a dentist regularly while maintaining good oral hygiene, the composite fillings will probably last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. - Can old amalgam fillings be replaced?
You can substitute your amalgam fillings for composite fillings if you want to go for a mercury-free or aesthetic alternative. - Do composite fillings stain easily?
You may notice slight discoloration of the fittings over time. However, you can easily polish them. Or, you can think about replacing them with new fittings in tastefully neutral designs. - Are amalgam fillings still used today?
Many patients now do a composite filling for their fillings because they are better looking and safer, but they can still use it.