Composite fillings, also known as “tooth colored fillings” are made from a combination of acrylic and
ceramic that can be matched to blend perfectly with your natural tooth shade. Composite fillings
provide good durability and can replace small and mid size decay in a tooth. They can be used on either
the front or back teeth. The filling generally last about 7-10 years if cared for properly. It also requires less
enamel removal and tooth preparation, allowing you to maintain as much of your natural tooth
structure as possible. Tooth colored fillings are now used more often than amalgam “silver fillings” due
to a more aesthetic and pleasing look.
On the other hand, amalgam fillings are made from a variety of metals, such as mercury, zinc, and
copper. Usually referred to as silver or metal fillings, compared to composite fillings, amalgam fillings
are more affordable, but cheaper is not always the best option especially when it comes to something as
important as your oral health. To prepare the tooth to get an amalgam filling, the dentist needs to
remove more tooth structure to place the amalgam filling which leaves you with less natural tooth
structure than a composite filling will.
At Somerset Dentistry in Troy, Dr. Chaudhry believes it is very important to conserve as much tooth structure as possible. Feel free to discuss your options and together we will create the best dental plan for you and your teeth so you can achieve a healthy, bright smile!
