Did you know that about 90 percent of Americans have at least one filling?  When a tooth develops a point of decay, this is actually a diseased area of the tooth material. The standard dental treatment for a cavity is to use a tiny drill to remove the diseased tissue and then install a filling to protect and seal the area. A dental filling can be either amalgam or composite resin. A composite filling is made of resinous polymers that can be tinted to be the same color as the tooth. Amalgam fillings are a mixture of powdered alloys and metals. Both composite and amalgam fillings have either advantages, and one type of filling may be recommended over the other in some cases. Let's take a closer look at the benefits and use cases for each type of filling. 

Why Amalgam Fillings May Be Recommended 

Amalgam fillings are often recommended for teeth that are primarily responsible for chewing. Therefore, these metal fillings may be used in back jaw teeth that are not immediately visible when you smile. Amalgam fillings do have a gray color, which is not ideal in the front teeth, but the denser material is more durable, which makes it a good fit for teeth that sustain a lot of wear. 

The Pros and Cons of Amalgam Fillings 

• Pro: Amalgam fillings can last up to 15 years 
• Con: Amalgam fillings are not the same color as the tooth 
• Pro: Amalgam fillings can be more cost-effective 
• Con: Amalgam fillings are not suitable for patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain conditions 

Why Composite Fillings May Be Recommended 

Composite fillings are most often used on teeth that are visible when you smile. The material can be tinted, so the filling exactly matches the hue of the natural teeth. Composite fillings are most often used for cavities, but may also be used for correcting gaps or changing the outward appearance of a tooth. 

The Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings 

• Pro: Composite fillings match your natural teeth 
• Con: Composite fillings have a shorter life span of about 7 years 
• Pro: Composite fillings can be used to fill gaps or change a tooth's cosmetic appearance 
• Con: Composite fillings can be more costly 

Discuss Fillings with the Dentist to Find the Best Solution for You 

In reality, both composite and amalgam fillings serve an important role in modern dentistry. Do you have teeth you suspect need fillings? Reach out to schedule an appointment to discuss your treatment options today.