When you see your dentist in Bowmanville for cavity treatment, you may have to choose between composite (white) fillings and metal fillings. Composite and metal fillings are both able to restore a damaged tooth, but they provide such different looks and sensations. If you are wondering which is a better choice for your smile, read on for a guide to your options.
What Is Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are made of a white resin material that is tooth-coloured and organically melds with the tooth structure. This means that they are nearly invisible when you smile or talk. Dentists often recommend them for front teeth or other visible tooth surfaces, since they look more natural than silver-coloured fillings. They are also able to withstand chewing pressure on back teeth, so many patients opt for them rather than metal fillings.
How Are Composite Fillings Different from Metal Fillings?
Amalgam fillings are another name for metal fillings. For many years, dentists have used amalgam fillings, which are composed of a combination of metals such as silver, tin, and mercury. Because they endure the normal wear and tear on your teeth and last a long time, they have been a popular option for repair. Amalgam is inherently shiny silver or dark grey, which makes it more visible in your mouth than composite fillings. The upside to composite fillings is that they more closely match the colour of your tooth structure, and the dentist must remove less healthy tooth structure than with metal fillings for placement.
What Are The Benefits of Composite Fillings?
The benefits of composite fillings go beyond aesthetics. Some main advantages of these fillings are:
- Natural look – they blend perfectly with your teeth.
- Less drilling – More tooth structure is preserved
- Strong bond – They bond directly to your tooth to make it stronger.
- Versatile – They can be used on the front or back teeth.
- Mercury free – They are a safer alternative to metal if you are wary of metal.
Are composite fillings as strong as metal fillings?
Indeed, composite fillings are robust enough to be eaten with your typical biting and chewing habits for everyday use. While some metal fillings will last a little longer, composite fillings have improved over the years and have excellent durability. Your dentist will decide the best filling material based on the size and location of your cavity.
Which lasts longer – composite fillings or metal fillings?
Metal fillings can last for 10-15 years, or more, while composite fillings will often last about 7-10 years (with proper maintenance). The lifespan of your fillings will depend on your oral habits, diet, and how well you maintain your teeth. Regular visits to your dentist can help your dentist pick up ongoing concerns in the early stages.
What to expect when getting composite fillings
If you are getting composite fillings in Bowmanville, these are the general steps of the process:
- Numbing – The dentist will numb the area to make you more comfortable.
- Cleaning – The decayed portion of the tooth is removed.
- Filling place – The composite will typically go in layer by layer and be hardened with a special light.
- Shaping/polishing – The filling is designed to bite into your tooth structure and is polished to resemble a natural tooth.
The process is quick and typically painless, and you can generally eat normally after a short time.
Are composite fillings better if you have sensitive teeth?
Yes, many patients have reported that composite fillings are less temperature sensitive than metal fillings. They also create a tight bond to your tooth to decrease the risk of further decay.
Caring for your composite fillings
To help your composite fillings last longer:
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day.
- To get rid of plaque between your teeth, floss every day.
- Steer clear of chewing on hard things like ice, pens, etc.
- See your dentist at least once per year for a check-up.
With care, your fillings can look great and hold their strength for many years to come.
So, are composite fillings a better option than metal fillings?
Composite fillings are probably a better option overall. Composite fillings are stronger, safer, and appear more natural. However, for very large cavities on back teeth, metal fillings may still be indicated. Your dentist near you can assist in walking you through which material is best for you based on your situation and budget.
Have you decided you want to restore your smile?
At Liberty Dental Centre, we are happy to provide excellent composite fillings that will blend in with your current teeth. Call us now so that you can get your appointment and your healthy smile!
