Invisible White Fillings

White fillings or composite fillings have become more popular these days than silver amalgam fillings. There are several important differences between the two types, it's not just a matter of appearance.

Given the opportunity to make a fully informed choice, my experience is that the vast majority of today's dental patients will choose the white fillings. There are several reasons for this: In the view of many, the mercury in amalgam is viewed as potentially toxic. You may have heard the term "silver fillings," but they have more mercury in them than silver. Also, the feeling is that the white composite represents a more advanced technology. Additionally, composite is more esthetic. And, with today's technology, composite fillings can easily withstand the stress required to serve in a back tooth

Advantages of white fillings:

* Since they bond to the tooth, composite fillings restore most of the original strength of the tooth. Silver weakens 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, if correct techniques are used.
* Composites are mercury-free. 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.

One caution - the composite fillings can be seriously weakened by excessive alcohol consumption. If you have a habit of drinking beverages with high alcohol content (whiskey, etc.) on a daily basis, you may find the composite fillings deteriorating prematurely.