Fillings

Composite restorations, or white fillings, are resin based. They have been routinely used since the 1950’s and are becoming more and more reliable in terms of bonding and strength. If you choose composite fillings, we will match it to the colour of your natural teeth for the best aesthetics. Compared to the traditional silver amalgam fillings these provide a natural, healthier option to repair damage and improve cosmetic appearance. 

Advantages:

– They are tooth coloured and ideal in aesthetically demanding situations.
– They bond to natural tooth.

Disadvantages:

– They are very technique sensitive, and should be done under rubber dam and in small increments.
– They may shrink and cause cracks in the tooth.
– They pick up stains from food and drinks over time, however they can be polished to remove most stains.
– They wear quicker (composite longevity has been documented to be about 7 years) than amalgam and may need to be replaced sooner.

Amalgam restorations are fillings made from metal, and have a grey/silver appearance. They have been used for hundreds of years and are by far the most reliable in terms of strength and longevity. The concern for many patients is that mercury is found in the filling. However, we do not advocate the removal of amalgam unless it is for cosmetic reasons or in situations where active decay is present under the filling.

Advantages:

– High in strength
– Wear slower and are more long lasting (Amalgam’s longevity has been documented to be about 10-15 years).

Disadvantages:

– They are metal looking and not aesthetically pleasing.
– They contain Mercury.