About Dental Fillings
When a small portion of tooth is damaged by decay or a small fracture a dental filling is a way to restore it to its normal function and shape.
There are two types of basic material we use today for fillings, one is metal or an amalgam and another one is white or so-called composite. Composite, tooth-colored, material is a primary choice today when decayed teeth require a dental filling. Dental Element stopped using mercury-silver amalgam fillings 15 years ago. We feel that contemporary composite materials are a better choice. They reflect the latest achievements in the research science of molecular biology. Composite restorations are getting more durable, require less drilling, and help to preserve more of precious tooth structure.
If you have more questions about dental fillings, please contact us at (215) 557-0660 or request an appointment.
The use of silver fillings has been always a subject of debate. Patients often ask us to remove old silver fillings because they are worried about the health effects they have seen or read in the news, or because these restorations are not aesthetic. Nowadays it is very common for patients to desire to have their fillings changed, but our personal philosophy is that if these filings are not broken, defective or decayed, then they should be left alone. The biggest problem with changing fillings is that the next one is going to be bigger and the tooth will be structurally weaker. So if the old filling is a small one it is not an issue but if it is relatively large it is a shortcut to a crown. If you really want them replaced with a tooth-colored white filling, we can discuss the risks and benefits together and decide what is in your best interest.
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