Facts about Dental Fillings

When cavities are filled, there are different substances that can be used. Amalgam fillings are made of mercury, silver, copper and tin, with 50% of the content being mercury. This type of filling is strong and will last for years, but it will show as silver in the tooth. There has also been a good deal of controversy about whether the mercury that is used in these fillings can cause health problems over time.

Composite fillings are being used but are not covered by insurance as they take longer to be placed in the tooth and are not as reliable as amalgam fillings. Composite material is a combination of glass and plastic resin. It is aesthetically pleasing because it matches the color of the tooth, but it can leave minute spaces when it is hardened in the tooth through light treatment. These spaces can allow the development of bacteria. Composite material usually requires less removal of tooth structure, which will enable the filling to be smaller in size than amalgam fillings.

Amalgam and composite fillings are used most often, but there are three other alternatives. Glass ionomers, a combination of glass and organic acid, can be used to fill cavities, though it does fracture easily and cannot be used in teeth that are subjected to pressure when eating. Porcelain fillings are sometimes used but are prone to breakage. Gold fillings are very strong and durable, but they can conduct cold and heat and are not as comfortable in the tooth.

Source: Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist
[Back]