If you’ve got older metal fillings protecting your smile, you may be wondering how long you can expect them to last. The good news is that amalgam restorations can protect your teeth for decades with proper care. Unfortunately, however, they can also cause a fair share of problems. Here’s a closer look at the drawbacks of metal fillings, and why now is the perfect time to upgrade to durable, natural-looking, composite resin!
What is Amalgam Metal?
Amalgam is a mixture of several different types of metal, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Although they have been used to restore teeth for decades, in recent years studies have found that having eight or more may increase the levels of mercury in your blood. Furthermore, because metals expand and contract with exposure to heat and cold, these restorations have also been known to damage teeth over time, creating tiny cracks and fissures that may weaken the enamel and leave it vulnerable to breakage and cavities.
What is Composite Resin?
Composite resin “tooth-colored” fillings are a mixture of several safe, durable substances including glass, resin, quartz, ceramic and coupling agents which begin in a putty-like state and harden with a fast, painless UV light. Not only do they not contain metals, but these restorations can also be identically matched to the color of your teeth, so they blend into your arches and won’t stand out when you eat, speak, or smile.
Should I Upgrade My Fillings?
With proper care, a metal restoration could potentially last decades, but it is still a good idea to replace them. Not only were they not designed to last forever (most have an average lifespan of 15 years), but given emerging research on their safety, along with how noticeable they are in your arches, there’s no reason to not upgrade to composite resin sooner rather than later.
Remember, although your amalgam fillings may still be working well, there’s no shame in wanting to upgrade to durable, lifelike composite resin restorations. These fillings have been proven safe and blend seamlessly into your smile, so nobody but you (and your dentist!) needs to know that you’ve had work done. To learn more about tooth-colored fillings, talk to your dentist today!
About Dr. Vekariya
Dr. Raj Vekariya earned his initial dental degree and worked as an associate dentist in his native India before moving to the United States in 2005 to earn his second dental degree at the prestigious New York University. Today, he is pleased to helm Center One Dental, sharing his decades of experience with patients in the Canonsburg area. If you’re ready to upgrade your grin from dated amalgam metal to durable, lifelike composite resin restorations, contact us for a consultation by visiting our website or calling 724-300-3700.