Why Dentists and Patients Are Choosing White Fillings Over Metal Amalgam Fillings

When you visit your local dentist in Valencia, California, cavities may be discovered during an examination, and dental fillings will likely be used for treatment. For many years, dentists all over the world used metal amalgam fillings. These fillings were composed of several different metals. At the time, this type of filling was the best available. However, dentists like Dr. Brian Gradinger use white composite resin fillings for treatment. Made of a resin composite, they are highly customizable. They can be shaped and shaded as needed for a completely natural look. They are also metal-free. Let’s examine why these white-colored fillings are preferred over old-fashioned metal amalgam fillings.

Composition

A white composite filling is crafted from a metal-free composite resin, which can be bonded to your tooth without the need to remove as much of the tooth’s structure as with a metal amalgam filling. They are very customizable. Your dentist can shape the material as needed and shade it to match the color of your natural tooth. This results in a discreet restoration, unlike the silver color of metal amalgam, composed of metals including mercury and copper.

Application

A white composite filling can be bonded to your tooth. This creates a strong, durable, and long-lasting solution that will protect your tooth from further damage for many years. Silver fillings, on the other hand, cannot be bonded to the tooth. Instead, they are placed and then locked in place with expansion. Metal fillings can contract and expand with temperature changes, most comply from the food you eat or beverages you drink. This could result in further bacteria getting into the filling.

Non-Toxic

There is an ongoing argument about just how toxic the mercury in an amalgam filling is and how it affects the body over the long term. One side of the opinion states that it is immensely harmful, while the other side argues that the amount of mercury is so minimal that any side effects are negligible. What cannot be argued is that mercury is toxic, so why risk having any trace of it in your body? 

To learn more about white composite resin fillings or to schedule an appointment, please call the team at Dr. Brian Gradinger DMD today at (661) 450-6650.