Composite or Amalgam?
After fixing tooth decay, the dentist turns to fillings. There are different types of filling materials, each offering its own advantages and disadvantages.
The differences between composite and amalgam fillings lie in their material composition, strength, durability, cost, and other factors.
Both amalgam and composite protect teeth from further damage and decay by closing the spaces after dental treatment. In this article, we will discuss the difference between composite and amalgam in detail.
Composite vs Amalgam Effectiveness
More than 100 million people use amalgam fillings annually, and the popularity of composite dental fillings is also increasing.
Both fillings have demonstrated a success rate of approximately 80% over a 10 year period, according to clinical studies.
Dental amalgam is composed of various metals, while composite fillings consist of polymer and glass. Unlike amalgam, composite hardens when exposed to a special blue light.
What Is an Amalgam Filling?
“Dental amalgam has been used for more than 150 years and remains one of the most durable and cost-effective restorative materials available.”
American Dental Association (ADA)
Amalgam, or silver fillings, are a mixture of different metals that chemically react. Mercury, which constitutes 50% of amalgam, is the primary component that enables the material’s stability and durability.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA) say that the small amount of mercury used is safe for patients.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings, often referred to as white fillings due to their tooth colored appearance, are made from resin based polymers and glass particles.
Once the cavity is opened, an acidic gel is used to help bond. The dentist then applies a bonding agent that hardens with a curing light.
Once the composite is in place, it is cured with the same curing light. Finally, the dentist polishes the filling to a smooth, shiny surface. The type of material used can help differentiate composite from amalgam.
“Composite resins are tooth-colored materials that provide excellent aesthetics and are increasingly used as an alternative to amalgam for anterior and posterior restorations.”
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Composite vs Amalgam: Aesthetic Choice
One of the most critical differences between composite and amalgam is the aesthetics of the teeth.
Amalgam fillings are darker and silvery in color after they are applied to the teeth. On the other hand, composite veneers are tooth colored, which gives the teeth a more beautiful appearance.
While amalgam has a silvery appearance, this is generally not an issue for back teeth, as they are less visible when smiling or speaking.
Unlike amalgam, composite cannot be distinguished from other teeth. Composite can also be used to change the shape and size of teeth to improve the appearance of your smile.
“The use of dental amalgam is declining due to concerns about aesthetics and mercury content, while composite materials are gaining popularity for their ability to bond directly to tooth structure.”
Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA)
Composite or Amalgam: Which Lasts Longer?
While composite fillings can withstand the everyday stresses of chewing, they are less resistant to excessive force.
This is why amalgam is often recommended for patients who suffer from bruxism or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
Amalgam fillings are also better for back teeth, as they withstand the pressure of grinding food.
Composite vs Amalgam: Durability Comparison
Amalgam fillings are stronger and more durable than composite materials.
Certain modifications to the tooth are necessary for proper amalgam placement, which may involve removing more of the natural tooth structure compared to composite fillings.
Composite fillings are bonded directly to the tooth, preserving more of the natural tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings. Dental composite complications are very rare and often cause transient sensitivity.
Composite vs Amalgam Costs
Cost is another critical factor in the difference between composite and amalgam.
Composite fillings are more expensive, often costing up to twice as much as amalgam fillings. However, they offer better aesthetics and satisfactory durability.
How to Choose the Right Filling?
With the advances made in dentistry, dental problems can be minimized by using various fillings, such as amalgam and composite. Understanding the difference between composite and amalgam can help you choose the best treatment method.
If you are suffering from dental problems, you can benefit from the extensive services of Dr. Ghayoumi Dental Center, which is known as one of the best dental clinics in Irvine.
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