Your selection of filling material for dental restorations plays a big role in your oral health, aesthetic results, and satisfaction. Many dental patients in Fresno, CA choose composite fillings over traditional amalgam fillings. Learning about the advantages of composite fillings can help you decide if they are right for your dental health, recommends a dental practice in Fresno, CA.

Aesthetic Appeal

One of the primary advantages of composite fillings is their ability to blend in with your natural teeth. Composite fillings are constructed of a resin substance that may be matched to the color of your natural teeth. This implies that after the filling is in place, it is nearly indistinguishable from the natural tooth structure. In contrast, amalgam fillings are silver and can be fairly conspicuous, especially when utilized on front teeth or other prominent locations.

Safety and Health

Amalgam fillings aren’t just good for the environment, but they also help some people who have health issues that might be worsened by lower-level mercury exposure. While the quantity of mercury in amalgam fillings is within what many people consider a safe range, some elect to avoid it altogether. For those who are cautious with their health, the composite fillings are a wise choice; they contain no mercury.

Since composite fillings need the least tooth structure loss compared to amalgam. This conservative approach means that more of your natural tooth will be preserved, resulting in an overall stronger and healthier tooth.

Durability and Strength

Technological advancements in dental materials have made composite fillings more durable and stronger than ever before. Today, composite fillings can endure a lot of the forces endured during chewing and will last for many years without issue if you take good care of them. Composite fillings were introduced in the 1960s and, while not quite as durable as amalgam, can come close to matching their lifespans. Composite fillings also bond to the tooth structure which can help strengthen it and reduce the chances of breakage.

Versatility

Composite fillings are one of the most versatile materials and can be used in a lot of different restorations. They work well for areas of decay on the front and back teeth, filling in cavities, or repairing chipped, cracked, or worn down teeth. Composite fillings can be used in a wide variety of applications which makes them an excellent option for total dental care.

Reduced Sensitivity

Composite Fillings also provide reduced tooth sensitivity for many of our patients compared to amalgam fillings. For composite fillings, the bonding process can also help to insulate and protect teeth from temperature changes caused by hot or cold foods. This can help make the experience more comfortable, especially for someone with sensitive teeth.

Environmentally Friendly

In Fresno, composite fillings provide an environmentally-friendly option to amalgam for those concerned about saving the planet. Our amalgam fillings were removed and the collected material had to be disposed of according to strict guidelines since it contained mercury, which could seep into the environment. Amalgam & composite fillings are safe to use, but the presence of mercury makes them harder to dispose of and more harmful to our planet.

If you are looking around to get the composite fillings done, your dentist must be experienced and good at doing this type of restoration. Residents of Fresno, CA have several reasons to consider composite fillings in place of traditional amalgam restorations. Superior aesthetics, bonding strength, and upkeep of the natural tooth structure. In brief, these are more effective than mercury amalgam fillings from a health point of view. If you need a filling or other type of dental work, contact your local Fresno dentist to find out the best solution for your specific oral health needs.