White fillings and amalgam fillings have both been used in dental work for a number of years. However, whereas amalgam was adapted for dental use around 150 years ago, composite fillings have significantly gained popularity over the last 30 years. Both materials are safe and effective, but here we break down the differences between them, showing you how white fillings are the better option for securing that sensational smile!

What are amalgam fillings?

Dental amalgam is a material used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. The amalgam is a mixture of metals, made up of liquid mercury (this composes approximately 50%) and a powdered alloy containing tin, copper, and silver. Dental amalgam fillings are also commonly referred to as ‘silver fillings’, owing to their silver appearance.

What are the advantages of amalgam fillings?

Amalgam fillings are strong and can withstand the force of chewing. They tend to be on the cheaper side, usually the least expensive type of tooth restorative material. This type of filling can be completed in one visit to your dentist. During the filling process, they are less sensitive to moisture when you compare them to composite resin fillings.

What are the disadvantages of amalgam fillings?

Because they look like silver, amalgam fillings don’t match the colour of your teeth. They can also tarnish or corrode over time, which causes discolouration when the filling comes to meet the tooth. Traditionally, non-bonded amalgam fillings don’t bond with your tooth, and the cavity preparation performed by your dentist requires ledges to keep the filling in place – meaning they may have to remove more of your tooth to secure the filling.

What are white fillings?

White fillings, or composite resins, are made of a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. They are used for small and large fillings, usually for the front teeth or the visible parts of teeth, as well as inlays. They last for at least five years.

What makes white fillings the better option?

White fillings are designed to match the colour of your teeth, so your filling will be discreet and natural-looking. They are bonded directly to your tooth, making the tooth stronger than it typically would be with an amalgam filling. You will find that less drilling is involved when it comes to white fillings, simply because your dentist does not have to define the space as much to hold the filling securely. Indirect composite fillings are also heat-cured, adding extra strength.

Are there any downsides to white fillings?

White fillings take more time to place than amalgam fillings because they are usually placed in layers. The increased time and labour involved contributes to a higher cost, meaning that white fillings are slightly pricier than amalgam fillings. You may need two visits to the dentists, but the dentists in Balham make this a simple and painless procedure.

White fillings are safe, secure, and sure to give you that dazzling smile you’ve been hoping for!