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Are composite (white) fillings safer/ last longer than amalgam (silver) fillings? I have many silver filling that have no problem since it was done 5 years ago but I heard they are not healthy so I am thinking to replace them but I heard white fillings are so week, don't last long(not more than 5 years) and require experienced doctor do do it so accurate. My cavities were deep for those silver filling and the filling are from top and side of the teeth. I don't feel it worth it to replace them unless i know a really experienced dentist in san diego. I also need some advice from those who have got their filling replaced.
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Thanks DaisyN i have actually heard same thing you just said from dentist but having so many experience with doctors who did poor job doing my teeth or encouraging me to get some unnecessary expensive dental work done make me think i better ask those patients who actually went through it so they know honestly the good/bad effects . i know silver filling may not look good but i rather have them till they don't bother me unless i make sure changing to white filling don't cause and more dental work.
May 23, 2013 - 9:38ami guess my main question was
1) if the white filling is as strong as silver and enough to stay more than 20 years and don't need replacement every 5 years.
2) if anymore knows a very good dentist in san diego who is very expert replacing silver with white filling.
3) maybe filling with white would be a good idea but does it really worth it to replace silver with white . it that true that doing extra work on my teeth eventually cause more loss of teeth and finally in a couple years need crowns?
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Hi Anon,
Composite fillings are the most widely-used dental filling material. They're made of glass or quartz in resin.
Advantages: Your dentist can closely match the color of a composite filling to the color of your surrounding natural teeth.
Disadvantages: Just like your own teeth, composite fillings can stain or discolor over time.
Your dentist may consider a composite filling if the cavity is small to medium-sized or if the affected tooth gets a lot of chewing action. These may also be a good choice for people who are afraid of dental work, since composite can be bonded in place – which means less drilling.
Dentists have used amalgam to fill cavities for more than a century. These fillings are alloys that combine silver, tin, copper, and mercury.
Advantages: Amalgam fillings are very durable and long-lasting. Plus, amalgam is one of the least expensive filling materials.
Disadvantages: Amalgam is silver-colored, so fillings will show. Cavities filled with amalgam are often temporarily sensitive to hot or cold.
You will need to discuss with your doctor as to which filling, it's best for you.
Best,
Daisy
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