Yes! Because tooth-colored, or composite resin fillings are bonded directly to your tooth, they are extremely durable. Patients love the fact that these fillings are also aesthetically pleasing because they blend seamlessly with your smile.
The Difference Between Composite and Metal Amalgam Fillings
Silver amalgam was the standard material for tooth fillings in the past, especially for molars that take the brunt of the chewing forces. However, some problems with amalgam have caused patients to move toward composite resin fillings for their smiles.
- Temperature sensitivity — Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes in the mouth, causing the filling to pull away from the tooth and allow bacteria back in.
- Preserves less tooth structure — Dentists have to remove more natural, healthy tooth structure to place an amalgam filling than they do for a composite filling.
- Lack of aesthetics — Metal fillings are highly visible in your smile, while composite fillings blend seamlessly with your tooth.
- Metal allergies — Some patients have allergies or are sensitive to the mercury and metal content in amalgam fillings.
Composite fillings eliminate all of these concerns, while also being an aesthetic addition to your smile. Talk with your dentist in DUMBO at (347) 572-7051 for more information about tooth-colored fillings.