Have you ever had a cavity? If you have, you might know about fillings. They’re like little patches for your teeth when they get a hole called a cavity. But did you know there are different kinds of fillings? Some are made of metal, like silver, while others are tooth-coloured. Today, we’re going to explore which one might be better for your teeth: tooth-coloured fillings or metal fillings.
First off, let’s talk about what these fillings are made of. Metal fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, are made from a mixture of metals like silver, tin, copper, and Mercury. Yes, that’s right, Mercury. It’s a liquid metal that helps make the filling stay in place.
On the other hand, tooth-coloured fillings near you are made of composite resin, which is a kind of plastic that can be shaded to match the colour of your teeth. Now, you might be wondering why it matters what your filling is made of. Well, let’s find out.
1. Looks Matter
Imagine having a shiny silver patch on your teeth every time you smile. It might not look so cool, right? Tooth-coloured fillings blend in with your natural teeth, so nobody can even tell you have a cavity.
2. Safety First
Metal fillings contain Mercury, which can be harmful if it leaks into your body. Tooth-coloured fillings in Chaparral don’t have Mercury, making them a safer option for some people.
3. Keeping Your Teeth Strong
Metal fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, which might cause your tooth to crack over time. Tooth-coloured fillings, however, bond directly to your tooth, helping to keep it strong and less likely to crack.
4. Less Drilling
When getting a tooth-coloured filling, less of your natural tooth needs to be removed compared to metal fillings. That means more of your own tooth stays intact.
5. Durability
While metal fillings are durable, tooth-coloured fillings can be just as strong if taken care of properly. Plus, they can last a long time and are less likely to break.
6. Allergies
Some people might be allergic to the metals used in metal fillings. Tooth-coloured fillings don’t contain these metals, so they might be a better choice for those with allergies.
So, What’s The Verdict?
Tooth-coloured fillings seem to have a lot of benefits over metal fillings. They look better, they’re safer for some people, they keep your teeth strong, and they might even require less drilling.
However, it’s essential to talk to your dentist near you to figure out which type of filling is best for you. Every tooth is different, and what works for one person might not work for another.
Last Thoughts
Remember, taking care of your teeth is super important. Brushing, flossing, and having regular dental check-ups can all help to prevent cavities. And if you ever need a filling, now you know there’s more than just one option.
Tooth-coloured fillings might just be the way to go for a brighter, healthier smile! Chaparral Dental Wellness provides insights on why tooth-coloured fillings could outshine metal ones, aiding your decision for the best dental care. Consult our dentist in Chaparral and get your concerns cleared up.