In the past, if you needed a cavity filled, your dentist would probably have provided an amalgam repair. This material consists of powdered metals, such as silver, tin, or copper, mixed with liquid mercury as a bonding agent. Although durable enough to last for 10+ years, these restorations can also cause potential problems.
Thankfully, most providers today utilize tooth-colored composite resin to mend sections of decayed enamel instead. If you still have silver fillings and are considering an upgrade, continue reading to learn 3 reasons to have them replaced with more lifelike materials!
Reason #1: Avoid Sensitivity
The metal materials used in amalgam fillings are strong enough to withstand the daily pressure of biting and chewing for a decade or longer, if cared for correctly. However, they also conduct sensations, like overly hot or cold temperatures, more easily to the sensitive nerves inside your teeth, which can cause sensitivity.
Not only that, but some patients are allergic to different metals or react to the mercury content in silver restorations. Meanwhile, tooth-colored composite resin is FDA-approved and contains microscopic plastic and glass particles that are much less likely to trigger adverse reactions or harm your health.
Reason #2: Preserve More Enamel
Did you know that the human body rejects most foreign materials, including many metals? Amalgam fillings include liquid mercury because it allows the durable materials to be applied to the tooth and molded into an appropriate shape before hardening in place. However, it doesn’t bond with your enamel, and sometimes requires that notches be carved to help anchor it in place, which slightly alters the structure of the underlying tooth.
Fortunately, tooth-colored fillings use biocompatible materials that bond with your teeth to preserve more of their natural shape, which helps protect them over time. That means these repairs strengthen your smile rather than weaken it.
Reason #3: Boost Your Confidence
In addition to potential sensitivity and changes to the structure of your teeth, metal fillings can also leave your teeth looking dark or dirty. If you’re feeling self-conscious about how your dental work looks, then a tooth-colored filling might help boost your confidence.
Not only does composite resin bond with your enamel, but it also reflects light more naturally and can be customized to match the shade of your natural teeth. The final result is a lifelike repair that very few people are likely to ever notice!
If you still have silver fillings and are unsure whether it’s worth replacing them with tooth-colored materials, you can learn more about it by consulting your dentist directly!
About the Practice
Patients at Nawrocki Dental of Cocoa Beach benefit from two dentists passionate about helping them improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. Dr. Nawrocki and Dr. Lineberry share several decades of combined experience, and today, collaborate to offer a complete menu of services, including tooth-colored fillings, to people of all ages. They take the time to learn about your unique needs and concerns, then use advanced technology to tailor your treatment plan to address them. You can request an appointment on the website or call (321) 783-7514.