Which Is the Best Choice? Learn About Amalgam vs. Composite Fillings

The signs that your teeth are deteriorating can present in many ways, such as discoloration or extra sensitivity. The most obvious sign is a large hole in the tooth, also known as a cavity. It’s vital to address cavities quickly, as the hole in your tooth will only grow bigger before penetrating the tooth’s core. Once that happens, you’ll likely experience excruciating and unrelenting pain.

Once a cavity has deteriorated to a certain point, you may undergo root canal therapy to save your tooth. But it’s much easier to avoid such discomfort by getting a filling to plug your cavity. Today patients choose from two of the most popular options, amalgam, and composite. Dr. Anu Mohan explains the difference between an amalgam and a tooth-coloured restoration at Rise Dental Boutique, Del Mar, California.

What Are Amalgam Fillings?

For decades amalgam fillings have been a reliable and cost-effective solution for treating cavities. The technique blends a combination of tin, zinc, silver, copper, and mercury to create a filling that seals off the cavity preventing further decay. Amalgam fillings effectively block food particles, bacteria, and saliva from entering the cavity. However, over the years, there have been concerns regarding the possibility of mercury poisoning and the impact these fillings can have on the environment. At I-Rise Dental Boutique amalgam filling option is not offered. However we do work with patients that already have amalgam fillings to safely remove them and replace them with composite fillings.

What Makes Composite Fillings Better?

Composite fillings are made using material that closely matches your natural tooth colour while providing many of the same benefits amalgam fillings have to offer. Some advantages to choosing composite fillings over amalgam include the following:

Durability

These natural-coloured fillings have the strength to withstand stress from daily activities such as chewing and biting. With proper care, composite fillings can last ten years or more.

Conservation

Composite fillings only require the removal of a small portion of your natural tooth.

Esthetics

Composite resin blends perfectly with your other natural teeth.

Safety

Unlike amalgam fillings, the composite resin is universally considered safe by dental and healthcare professionals worldwide.

In addition to composite fillings, we offer other materials to cater to your specific needs.

The Filling Process

 It’s understandable if the thought of filling a cavity overwhelms you. But we want you to know that you’ve got nothing to worry about. At Rise Dental Boutique, our team makes the process quick, easy, and painless. During routine checkups, we use technology such as radiographs to detect signs of decay or cavities, even in hidden areas between teeth.

Save Your Smile

To enjoy a natural-looking cavity-free smile, schedule your appointment with Dr. Mohan by calling (858) 465-8717.