Amalgam Fillings:
For over 100 years, dental amalgam has been the most widely used, and the most extensively researched, filling material. Amalgam can withstand the constant pressure of chewing, and yet is extremely malleable when being placed. Compared to other filling materials, dental amalgam is much less expensive, highly resistant to wear, and has a longer life span.
Tooth-Colored (Composite) Fillings:
Tooth-Colored (Composite) fillings have been primarily used on front teeth where appearance is very important. However, newer Composite materials are much stronger and much susceptible to staining than in the past. Composite filling materials are acrylic resin compounds that are chemically bonded to the tooth. Composite can be used for small or medium sized fillings. They are much more aesthetically pleasing than amalgam and can be matched in color to your own teeth making them virtually invisible. |