WHAT’S IN YOUR MOUTH?
Dental work is not always pleasant, but most of us agree that it is important for our optimum health and function. No one wants to go to the dentist any more than is absolutely necessary so when it comes to fillings, we want to make sure they last and that the materials are safe for our body.
As described in the Discovery Fit and Health article CAVITIES AND FILLINGS 101, there are different dental materials used for fillings and each has its pros and cons.
AMALGAM FILLINGS
Amalgam fillings are probably the most noticeable filling material for a couple of reasons. The first is that the amalgam filling has been around for 150 years and is seen in the mouths of several generations. The second reason is that amalgam is silver and easily noticable in an opened mouth. It is made from silver, tin, copper, mercury and zinc. The advantage of amalgam is that it is inexpensive and durable. Disadvantages include the fact that over time they can darken and give the teeth a black appearance. Some have concern that mercury in the amalgam has the potential to leak into the body and cause damage.
COMPOSITE, RESIN OR WHITE FILLINGS
These fillings, in use for about 20 years, are made of an organic polymer and inorganic particles. The advantages of composite fillings are that they require less drilling and blend in with the tooth. A disadvantages is that composites are usually more expensive than amalgam.
Both Amalgams and Composites are considered safe and are approved by the American Dental Association. This is much research done on these products resulting in materials that are more color stable, stronger and more durable.
PORCELAIN FILLINGS
Yet another material used for dental fillings is porcelain. Porcelain fillings, used most commonly as inlays, are composed of non-crystalline glass. The advantage of porcelain is that it is aesthetic looking. The disadvantages are that porcelain can be susceptible to damage due to brittleness and it is more expensive.
GOLD FILLINGS
Gold fillings are composed of an alloy of 75% gold, along with copper, silver, platinum, palladium and zinc. Advantages are that gold fillings are well tolerated by the gums and can last twice as long as other fillings. Disadvantages include higher expense than amalgams and composites. They do not look as good as composite or porcelain.
ASK YOUR DENTIST
Ask your dentist which filling material could be most appropriate for you.
At Lohmann Dental, located in the Shops of Buckhead, Dr. Lohmann takes time to personally explain filling material choices to every patient, so the best choice can be made for that person’s situation and condition.