When it comes to cavities and small chips or cracks, fillings are often a great choice for repairing them. The affected structure will be removed and replaced with a high-quality material. That way, you regain function without changing too much in your smile. In the past, amalgam was the only option, but a tooth-colored version is now offered in many practices. Which one should you get? Here’s what to know to feel confident deciding.
What Are the Downsides to Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam, or metal, fillings used to be the go-to treatment for minor dental damage, as they can last up to 15 years or longer. However, many people don’t like them because:
- They Don’t Look Natural: Results from this service were often shiny and obvious. The silvery appearance doesn’t blend in very well against enamel, so some patients were self-conscious about them.
- They Had Mercury: This material is about 50% tin, silver, or copper, and the other half was mercury. It’s a binding agent that’s easy to shape, but it’s toxic to the body in high amounts. A single filling wasn’t necessarily a problem, although it may be better to avoid it entirely for certain patients.
- They Are Sensitive to Temperature Changes: This restoration would expand and shrink when switching from hot to cold foods and drinks. Over time, this can weaken your tooth and lead to discomfort.
So, Why Are Tooth-Colored Fillings a Great Choice?
With all that said above, advancement in dentistry created tooth-colored fillings as a metal-free alternative. This modern treatment is made from high-quality composite resin that’s matched to your smile. Your results with it will look much more natural and are harder to spot.
Without any mercury in it, you don’t have to worry about your health being affected as well. Better yet, this service saves more of your tooth’s natural structure, so it has more to bond to. That way, you can enjoy your restoration for up to a decade or longer with proper care and feel confident using it.
About the Practice
At Indy Dental Group, our team is proud to serve patients across Indianapolis and the surrounding communities with exceptional, patient-centered dental care. We offer tooth-colored fillings as a natural-looking, durable solution for cavities, helping you restore your smile without sacrificing aesthetics. If you have any questions you want cleared up about this treatment, schedule an appointment or call any of our conveniently located offices near you.