What are Amalgam vs. Composite Fillings?

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amalgam vs

One of the most common dental procedures is a filling. During a filling, the tooth is cleaned out and filled to prolong the lifespan of the tooth. Choosing the right material for a filling is not only important for cosmetic concerns but also your overall health. The most commonly-used materials for fillings are amalgam and composite resin. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages. It is up to you to decide what type of filling suits works for your situation.

Amalgam is a material that is made up of copper, silver, zinc, tin, and mercury. This type of material is the most durable, lasting anywhere from 10-15 years. It is stronger than composite resin and tends to be more affordable. However, it is not usually cosmetically pleasing since it does not blend in with the color of the tooth. Amalgam fillings also expand and contract more, which weakens the tooth, and causing cracks and fractures. The major concern with using amalgam fillings is that the use of mercury may cause serious health issues. Some dentists have stopped using amalgam fillings to reduce possible mercury contamination in patients.

The composite filling is a more popular material than amalgam because it offers a variety of shades that match the color of the tooth. Composite fillings consist of white porcelain that is ground up and consists of durable resins. To put in a composite filling, the tooth decay is removed, cleaned, and the resin is piped into the tooth. A UV light is used to set the filling right away. Another advantage to using composite resin is that it bonds to the natural tooth and strengthens the teeth. The drawback to using composite is that it has a shorter lifespan than the amalgam filling, and it may require multiple trips to the dentist to add layers. It also may cost more money that amalgam.

While a lot of research on improving composite materials has been conducted, the patient should make the final choice in deciding which type of filling is right for them. It also depends on your insurance plan, since some plans do not cover the cost of composite fillings. However, your dentist may determine that composite may be the best option, so be sure to consult with them to determine the best course of action.

The team at Babylon Dental Care has been treating our patients like family for 36 years, so call us to schedule an appointment with us by calling (631) 983-6665 today.

 

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“I recently moved approximately 300 miles away, I continue to make the trip back to Babylon Dental Care. My hygienist Paige could not be kinder, friendlier or professional. I have been having issues with bone loss in my jaws and now it's time for implants. Dr. Knakal has been outstanding. I know I am in the best hands. Everyone I have dealt with at BDC from the receptionists to the checkout personnel are awesome! I will be continuing to make the trip for all my dental care.”

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“Babylon Dental Care is an amazing practice! I had an issue with my teeth and they took me immediately. Their friendly and compassionate staff walked me through each step and in a matter of a week I had that tooth extracted and my flipper ready for every day use! You can’t even tell I have it in! The office is spotless and they even have Netflix! How cool is that! You’re welcomed as soon as you walk in and they made me feel so comfortable. Dr. Golo and Dr. Knakal took such good care of me and I would recommend them to anyone! The office is so convenient and literally across the street from my home so it doesn’t get better than that! Thank you Babylon Dental!”

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“At Babylon Dental Care, “care” is given from arrival to check out. I was anxious; it had been a few years since my last filling. From the moment I walked into the exam room, Karen comforted me. She explained the process, answered my questions and talked with me to keep me calm. Dr. Wrann was excellent! I did not have any pain before, during or after the procedure. So happy! Thank you to a truly great team!”

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