Dr. Rejin Khafaf talks about the main distinctions between amalgam and composite fillings
Most dental patients in the UK have, at some point, had to make a decision between the filling options they want to have placed on their teeth. This article will help to highlight the differences between the two most common types of filling materials used – amalgam and composites. The latter are considered direct restorations (placed in the chairside by the dentist). Other options include crowns, inlays, and onlays which are indirect restorations (they are constructed in a dental laboratory by a technician and later returned to the dentist to be cemented into or onto the patient's tooth).
What are amalgam fillings?
Also known as “"silver fillings"” or “mercury fillings”, Dental amalgam is a mixture of different metals. These metals are mercury, silver, tin and copper. Approximately 50% of amalgam is made up of mercury. Mercury binds the metals together to increase the strength and durability of the amalgam. It should be noted that when mercury is combined with other metals, it forms a safe and stable compound that has been used for the past 150 years!
“Remarkable improvement in its mechanical properties for the restoration of posterior teeth.”
Due to the efficiency and cost Despite its popularity, amalgam is still the preferred restorative material in some parts of the world. However, concerns have recently arisen about the use of amalgam restorations (fillings) related to the release of mercury into the body and the environmental impact of its disposal. Resin composites have become an aesthetic alternative to amalgam restorations and have shown remarkable improvement in their mechanical properties for posterior tooth restorations.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of amalgam fillings?
Advantages:
- Proven experience: amalgam fillings have been used for over a century
- Economical: Amalgam generally costs much less than composite resin restorations.
- Long-lasting: On average, these fillings normally last between 10 and 15 years (which is approximately double the life expectancy of composite restorations) and are strong and durable.
- Time: Amalgams are generally quicker to place and therefore less time in the dentist's chair!
Disadvantages:
- Unsightly: In general, amalgam fillings are easy to spot even if you are not a dentist!
- Allergies: Some people develop allergies or mild sensitivities to amalgams.
- Limited support in large cavities: It does not provide the same support when it comes to large cavities because it does not have adhesion properties to the tooth, instead it is held by compression. This can lead to fractures of the tooth over time.
- Amalgam tattoo: Amalgams that have been in the mouth for many years can leave a dark tattoo in the area of the gum or cheek that is in contact with it.
What are composite fillings?
Fillings made of resin composite (also called “white fillings” or “tooth-colored fillings”) are made from a ceramic and plastic composite. If made properly, these fillings should blend in with the tooth being restored. An experienced clinician will be able to artistically recreate the shade, shape, and natural contours of your tooth using resin composites. For this reason, composites have become very popular as a restorative option.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of composite resin fillings?
Advantages:
- Aesthetic: These fillings can be matched exactly to the exact color of your teeth to fully integrate.
- Adhesion: unlike amalgam fillings, composites adhere to the tooth surface and are therefore maintained by chemical bonding (not by mechanical retention, as is the case with amalgams).
- Tooth preservation: composite restorations have adhesive properties, which ultimately means that less tooth structure removal is necessary.
- A good alternative to facet: In some cases, composite bonding can be used to transform a smile without the need to use a drill on natural tooth structure. Its bonding properties allow dentists to create new smiles, achieving the desired changes in the shape and shade of teeth after treatment.
Disadvantages:
- According to many studies, resin composites last an average of five to seven years before needing to be replaced. However, there are many variables that affect the longevity of resin composites (such as the patient's diet, regimen, and oral hygiene habits).
- Time: It takes more time to place a composite restoration than an amalgam. Humidity control is essential, and the procedure can be very technique-sensitive..
- Cost: Composite restorations typically cost more to place than amalgams.
- Technique dependent: Different dentists will produce different results with composite resin restorations. The artistic element of composite placement is essential to mimicking a tooth.
In an era where aesthetics are at the forefront of many medical and dental treatments, composites have emerged as a wonderful alternative to metal fillings and crown and bridge options. facet too destructive when redesigning a smile. Patients have the option to go to their dental appointment and leave with a new smile the same day. A smile that has been designed to their own specifications in terms of the size, shape and shade of their teeth.
Composite resin restorations can play a vital role in teeth whitening treatments. Patients are typically advised to whiten their teeth before placing previous composite restorations so that the dentist can place a shade of composite that will naturally blend with the new tooth shade.
“This provides a less expensive option for patients who want a celebrity-style smile.”
There are numerous digital smile design systems available today, where dentists and technicians can work closely together to pre-plan a new smile for patients without the use of crowns or facet. This provides a less expensive option for patients who want a celebrity-style smile, while requiring less time in the office for both the dentist and the patient.
Knowing all the data about these two restoration options, my choice would always be to I opt for composite resin when possible.. It is always recommended to listen to your dentist's advice regarding the treatment options that are right for you, as even composites have their own limitations regarding where and when they can be used.
Source: enlightensmiles.com
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