The Basics That You Should Know When Choosing Composite Resin Fillings Over Metal Amalgam

When a tooth develops tooth decay, that decay must be removed. What results is a dental cavity. This cavity will need to be filled. Today’s dentists, including Dr. Valerie Scola and the team at Scola Family Dentistry in Murrieta, California, have moved away from the metal amalgam fillings of yesterday and now utilize composite resin for fillings. This tooth-colored material provides a better look and contains no harmful metals within its composition. 

Dental fillings are the most commonly performed restorative dental service, and it is likely that you have at least one filling. Because of how common fillings have become, many dental patients view this treatment as routine and do not generally question the materials used. At Scola Family Dentistry, we feel it is important to let you know what is going into your mouth, so here is a quick look at composite fillings and how they differ from older metal fillings. 

Composite Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a much newer invention when compared to amalgam (which has been around for about 150 years). Composite fillings have been used since the 60s, but it wasn’t until the last few decades that this form of filling overtook amalgam in popularity and use. Many dental offices, including Scola Family Dentistry, only use composite fillings. Key features of composite fillings include:

• Natural appearance that can be matched to any colored smile
• Composite resin material is strong and long-lasting
• Can also be used to fix minor cosmetic issues, including chips, cracks, and breaks
• The resin material bonds amazingly to your tooth’s enamel, making it very unlikely it will come loose
• Composite resin is not affected by cold or hot temperatures, unlike metal amalgam that expands and contracts when in contact with hot or cold food and drink

Composite fillings are your best choice if you seek a natural-looking finish that is nearly unnoticeable by others. They are also great for anybody with metal allergies or looking to avoid the negative traits that mercury possesses. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Valerie Scola, please call (951) 692-4221 today.