Another reason to not get amalgam fillings is that the metal expands and contracts with changes in temperature, say from drinking a cup of tea. Overtime, the constant expansion and contraction of the filling can weaken the tooth structure leading to the filling falling out or, in the worst case, fracturing the tooth. When contracting, it is possible that an amalgam filling can allow food particles to pass into the cavity, leading to additional and, potentially, initially undetectable decay. Composite fillings do not expand or contract and actually help restore the strength of the remaining tooth, whereas amalgam fillings, while apparently more durable, do not contribute to the strength of the tooth unless a bonding agent is used. Just something to consider.
I've had two composite fillings for the last 10-11 years and only just recently had to have the edges touched up on both, which is actually another benefit of composites - they can be restored.
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Another reason to not get amalgam fillings is that the metal expands and contracts with changes in temperature, say from drinking a cup of tea. Overtime, the constant expansion and contraction of the filling can weaken the tooth structure leading to the filling falling out or, in the worst case, fracturing the tooth. When contracting, it is possible that an amalgam filling can allow food particles to pass into the cavity, leading to additional and, potentially, initially undetectable decay. Composite fillings do not expand or contract and actually help restore the strength of the remaining tooth, whereas amalgam fillings, while apparently more durable, do not contribute to the strength of the tooth unless a bonding agent is used. Just something to consider.
I've had two composite fillings for the last 10-11 years and only just recently had to have the edges touched up on both, which is actually another benefit of composites - they can be restored.
December 2, 2009 - 5:47pmThis Comment
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