SILVER FILLINGS VS. COMPOSITE FILLINGS

General family dentistry tends to make people think of fillings; more specifically, silver fillings. Cosmetic dentistry tends to make people think of teeth whitening and smile makeovers. But today’s dentistry blurs the lines between the two. Composite fillings provide the functionality of silver fillings with the cosmetic appeal of white fillings that blend naturally with your teeth.

Silver fillings have been the standard in general dentistry for generations. They are somewhat cheaper than composite fillings. But the difference in cost is small, while the difference in appearance is huge. Most of Dr. Chapnick’s patients opt for the composite fillings, especially for front teeth. More and more people are opting for composite fillings, or their stronger alternative, porcelain inlays or onlays, for back teeth.

Composite resin is strong enough to replace silver amalgam fillings for back teeth, but when larger fillings are involved, porcelain is a better choice. Both composite and porcelain bond better than silver, and the stability of these tooth-colored fillings keeps that bond more secure. Silver filling bonds have been known to break, and that allows bacteria to get between the tooth and the filling where it can cause decay.

If you would like to improve your smile with white fillings, please contact Dr. Adam Chapnick at Chapnick Dental Office in Toronto for a personal consultation.