There are many benefits
to using white fillings: Also known as Resin
fillings or
Composite fillings, these compounds give a very natural-looking
smile. The color can be closely matched to your natural teeth,
so the restorations are nearly undetectable. Since the resin
compound actually bonds to the tooth, the seal is much tighter
leaving the restored tooth even stronger than it was before.
Resin fillings can also be made much smaller than an amalgam
filling. Therefore, less natural tooth structure is lost
when restoring a tooth with resin versus amalgam. Continual
improvements in resin products have made them durable and
long lasting.
Why replace silver fillings (amalgams) with white fillings?
| - |
Since they bond to the tooth, composite fillings
restore most of the original strength of the tooth.
Silver fillings weaken the teeth, making them more
susceptible to breaking. Since broken teeth are very
expensive to restore, composites can save a lot of
expense over the long run. |
| - |
Composite fillings restore the natural
appearance of the tooth. |
| - |
Teeth restored with white fillings are
less sensitive to hot and cold than teeth restored
with amalgam. |
| - |
Composites are mercury-free fillings.
Mercury in the fillings is viewed by some as being
toxic. |
| - |
Composites require less removal of tooth
structure. Especially with new cavities, the size of
the hole made for the filling can be dramatically smaller
with composites. |
Sources: The American Dental Association,
The World Health Organization, Caesy Patient Education system,
" The Use of Mercury Containing Restorations (Fillings) in Dentistry",
by Gordon J. Christensen, D.D.S., M.S.D., Ph.D. |
