For decades, amalgam fillings were the standard treatment for cavities. Thankfully, modern dentistry has moved toward a better option: tooth-colored fillings made from composite resin. If you’re weighing your choices, here are five reasons going with this new technology is well worth the extra effort.
1. They Blend in Seamlessly
Amalgam fillings are dark and metallic, making them obvious every time you smile, laugh, or talk. Tooth-colored fillings are custom-shaded to match your natural enamel, so the repair is virtually invisible. For fillings anywhere near the front of your mouth, this alone can make a huge aesthetic difference.
2. They Preserve More of Your Natural Tooth
Amalgam fillings require your dentist to remove additional healthy tooth structure to create a ridge that holds the filling in place. Composite resin, on the other hand, bonds directly to your tooth and clings into the natural crevices of your enamel. That means less of your original tooth has to be removed to make your filling work.
3. They’re Mercury and Metal-Free
Amalgam fillings contain a mixture of metals, including mercury. While the ADA considers amalgam safe, many patients simply prefer not to take any risks. Composite resin fillings are 100% mercury and metal-free, offering peace of mind to anyone who wants to steer clear of anything that could even be considered dangerous.
4. They’re Less Likely to Damage Your Tooth Over Time
Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes in ways that natural tooth structure doesn’t. Over years of hot coffee and cold ice cream, this constant expansion and contraction can cause amalgam fillings to crack or damage the surrounding tooth. Composite resin doesn’t have this problem. It behaves more like your natural enamel, reducing this long-term risk.
5. The Procedure Is Fast and Comfortable
Placing a tooth-colored filling is typically quick, often done in a single visit. Additionally, the procedure requires only a minimal amount of local anesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel any pain as your dentist does the work. The resin is applied in layers, shaped to the natural contours of your tooth, and hardened with a curing light. This creates a durable, seamless restoration in under an hour.
If you have old amalgam fillings you’re considering replacing, or you’re facing a new cavity and want to explore your options, talk to your dentist about tooth-colored fillings. It could be the best decision you’ve made for your smile in a while.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Byars earned his DDS from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Afterward, he completed a rare one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, giving him specialized training in complex restorative and implant care. A member of Spear Education, Dr. Byars offers 100% mercury and metal-free tooth-colored fillings for patients throughout Kansas City. Ready for a beautifully restored smile? Call (816) 781-8222 to schedule your visit.