For the last few decades, dentists have used amalgam fillings, also known as metal or silver fillings, to fill cavities or decay in your teeth. While at one point in time, these amalgam fillings contained mercury, many amalgam fillings now are created with copper, gold, or other materials. One of the most popular alternatives is known as a composite filling. Created with a composite resin that can match the color of your teeth, these fillings are often popular for cosmetic reasons, although they may not be appropriate for all situations.
In the video below, the American Dental Association provides an overview of how composite fillings are utilized and what benefits they can offer patients with cavities:
Transcript:
“Over the last 50 years, materials used to help restore decaying teeth have advanced. Composites, or white fillings, are the material of choice for giving you a more natural looking smile. Composites are fillings designed to match the color of your teeth and blend in with your tooth enamel. They’re the perfect choice for a cavity in a visible area of your smile, like on the front teeth or at the gum line. The two main ingredients are plastic resin and a filler of finely ground, glass-like particles. Although composites are preferred for cosmetic reasons, if a cavity is too large or is in an area where much chewing occurs, your dentist may recommend other treatment options. If you have any questions about composite fillings or any other restorative materials, ask your dentist.”
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