5 Advantages of Choosing a Tooth-Colored Filling Over an Amalgam Filling

If a cavity is found in one of your teeth, a filling can be used to get your oral health back on track. You might be expecting a filling made out of metal amalgam, but thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, you may be able to enjoy a much more aesthetically pleasing alternative. Tooth-colored fillings have grown more and more popular among dentists and patients alike. To help you understand why, here is a look at 5 of the key advantages they hold over traditional amalgam fillings.

1. Tooth-Colored Fillings Look Natural

Amalgam fillings tend to be all too obvious due to being so much darker than the surrounding tooth. In contrast, tooth-colored fillings are made out of composite resin, which is a material known for its ability to mimic the appearance of natural tooth enamel. It can even be shaded to match the rest of your smile. The result is a filling that blends in seamlessly and won’t draw unwanted attention.

2. Tooth-Colored Fillings Can Help You Save More of Your Enamel

Placing an amalgam filling requires your dentist to remove a small amount of enamel from the tooth in question. However, not as much enamel needs to be removed for a tooth-colored filling because composite resin can form a direct bond with the dental structure. This means that a tooth-colored filling will allow you to preserve more of your natural tooth.

3. Tooth-Colored Fillings Don’t Cause Metal Sensitivity

Some patients are sensitive to some of the metals that typically make up amalgam fillings. This can result in irritation, itching, and other concerning symptoms. Meanwhile, tooth-colored fillings don’t contain any metals. Thus, if you happen to have metal sensitivities, a tooth-colored filling is likely the safer option.

4. Tooth-Colored Fillings Don’t Change Size Due to Temperature Changes

Many metals tend to expand when exposed to hot temperatures, and they contract when exposed to cold temperatures. The same thing can happen to amalgam fillings, which can put a lot of pressure on your tooth. Over time, this could result in the enamel becoming cracked. However, a tooth-colored filling will not change size in response to temperature, allowing you to avoid this issue altogether.

5. Tooth-Colored Fillings Do Not Contain Mercury

Some patients are concerned about the fact that amalgam fillings often contain mercury. While such fillings are considered safe, you may be more comfortable with a restoration that does not contain any mercury whatsoever. Naturally, the many other benefits of tooth-colored fillings make them a great mercury-free option.

About the Author

Dr. Steve W. Cobb earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at Baylor School of Dentistry. He has more than 45 years of dental experience and is currently helping patients protect their smiles at his practice in Odessa. He’s able to use tooth-colored fillings to treat decayed teeth in a natural-looking way. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cobb, visit his website or call (432) 367-4774.