Dental technology has come a long way over the past few decades, offering a wide array of improved options. One significant advancement is the materials used for fillings.
In the past, most fillings were performed using a combination of metals known as dental amalgam: liquid mercury and a powdered alloy of tin, silver, and copper. The result is a silver-colored filling that doesn’t blend with the tooth’s natural appearance, making it immediately noticeable.
At Leavitt Dentistry, we have not used dental amalgam for decades in favor of a more advanced material: composite resin. This innovative substance provides not only aesthetic benefits but also many additional advantages, from enhanced durability to reduced tooth sensitivity.
If a metal filling is detracting from your smile’s beauty, consider replacing it with a more natural-looking solution. We can remove metal fillings and replace them with composite resin, creating a strong, seamless, and long-lasting restoration.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages of choosing composite resin fillings from Leavitt Dentistry.
#1. Aesthetic Advantages
When you smile, people should notice your dazzling personality, not your dental work. Unlike metal fillings, composite resin can be precisely matched to the exact shade of your teeth. This makes the restoration virtually invisible, preserving your teeth’s natural appearance. Whether you’re talking, laughing, or eating, nobody will be able to tell you’ve had a filling.
#2. Health and Safety
While the dental amalgam material used in metal fillings is generally considered to be safe, the use of mercury gives some individuals pause. Exposure to mercury has been linked to numerous health concerns, from skin irritation to chest pain to difficulty breathing.
According to the FDA, there are no known health risks related to ingesting small amounts of dental amalgam; however, inhaling mercury vapors may be harmful to certain people. Patients under the age of six, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those with neurological impairment or kidney dysfunction may be at increased risk of adverse side effects from metal fillings.
The risks of dental amalgam, as we understand them, are low, but it’s best to err on the side of caution and opt for composite resin fillings.
#3. Tooth Structure Preservation
Metal fillings require significant tooth structure removal. The dental amalgam material isn’t chemically bonded to the tooth; instead, it’s held in place by being wedged into the cavity, undercutting the tooth structure.
These fillings are also known to microscopically expand and contract over time, fracturing the tooth enamel and compromising the seal between the filling and the tooth. This allows bacteria to grow in these spaces, leading to further decay.
Composite resin fillings are bonded directly to the tooth, providing a strong seal with less drilling. By conserving more of the natural tooth structure and preserving its strong bond over time, these fillings help maintain the tooth’s strength and prolong its life.
#4. Durability and Longevity
As time passes, metal fillings can corrode due to being in a constantly wet environment. Additionally, the release of small amounts of mercury vapor weakens the filling, and erosion on its surface can cause food to get trapped in the crevices. Conversely, modern composite resin is highly resistant to wear and can last a lifetime with proper care.
#5. Environmental Considerations
The benefits of composite resin fillings go beyond aesthetics and functionality; they are also a more eco-friendly option. The disposal of mercury from amalgam fillings poses environmental concerns, potentially contaminating water sources. When we remove metal fillings, we filter all of our wastewater, ensuring the metals don’t contribute to water pollution. By opting for composite fillings, you contribute to a safer and healthier planet.
Say Goodbye to Metal Fillings at Leavitt Dentistry
At Leavitt Dentistry, we recognize the importance of staying at the forefront of dental technology. As part of our commitment to providing outstanding dental care, we are proud to offer composite resin fillings. Not only are they more durable and natural-looking than metal fillings, but they allow for a more comfortable patient experience.
If you have a cavity that needs attention or a metal filling that needs replacing, make the right choice and schedule an appointment at Leavitt Dentistry. Through our cosmetic and restorative dentistry services, we have helped countless patients enjoy more confident, radiant smiles. Our composite filling procedure is less time-consuming and invasive than ever before, with minimal drilling required.
Don’t let metal fillings weigh you down any longer. Contact us today to learn more about the incredible benefits of composite resin!
