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Composite Resin Fillings: Aesthetic Strength and Modern Dental Care
When treating cavities, patients are often faced with the choice between traditional silver (amalgam) fillings and tooth-colored composite resin fillings. In modern dentistry, composite fillings have become increasingly popular due to their natural appearance, versatility, and ongoing advancements in durability and performance.
Composite resin fillings are made from a blend of advanced plastic materials and fine inorganic fillers such as silicon dioxide. Because they closely match the natural color of teeth, they blend seamlessly into the smile, making them an excellent option for both visible and functional areas of the mouth. In addition to repairing decay, composite resins can be used for cosmetic improvements, including reshaping teeth, correcting minor imperfections, and enhancing overall tooth appearance.
Unlike amalgam fillings, composite materials bond directly to the tooth structure. This bonding helps reinforce the remaining tooth, reduces the risk of fractures, and provides better insulation against temperature changes from hot and cold foods. Advances in composite technology have also significantly improved strength, allowing these fillings to withstand chewing forces in both front and back teeth while minimizing sensitivity that was more common with earlier materials.
Dental amalgam has been used successfully for over 150 years and is known for its strength and longevity. It is composed of a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper, with mercury acting as a binding agent to create a durable restoration. While the FDA maintains that amalgam fillings fall within current safety standards, some patients choose composite fillings due to aesthetic concerns and a preference for metal-free restorations.
Although composite fillings typically require more time and precision to place and may cost more than amalgam, many patients feel the benefits outweigh the difference. With today’s emphasis on natural-looking, conservative dental care, tooth-colored composite resin fillings continue to be a reliable, effective, and visually appealing solution for restoring both function and confidence in your smile.