13 Sep When to Consider Replacing Your Metal Fillings with Composite Fillings
Today’s composite resin fillings have numerous advantages over their metal counterparts of the past. They are aesthetically pleasing with a color that blends into the natural teeth, and they only take a few minutes to bond to the tooth and harden. Furthermore, they can minimize drilling into the tooth, since the resin is able to take any shape and form fit to the remaining tooth structure.
With so many advantages in composite fillings, you might think that it’s ideal to replace any metal fillings with updated composite ones. However, this isn’t necessary for everyone. Replacing a metal filling when it is still in good condition can do more harm to the teeth than good. But, if you have any of the following concerns, you can benefit from visiting the dentist to talk about replacing your metal fillings.
Your tooth has become fractured.
Metal amalgam fillings are commonly associated with tiny fractures in the teeth, which can weakens the tooth and can allow bacteria to invade the inner structure of the tooth. Composite resin fillings bond to the tooth rather than simply sit on top of or wedged in it.
Your tooth has decayed further.
Because of the way metal fillings sit on top of or wedged in the tooth, eventually saliva, food particles, and bacteria may make their way in through any small gaps. This can cause further tooth decay, which may require a new composite filling or replacement of the whole tooth when cavities are larger.
For modern, comfortable dental care in Tucson, schedule a consultation with Dr. John R. Carson, DDS. Dr. Carson blends both art and science in our restorative and cosmetic dental services, which can give your teeth a new life. To make an appointment in our dental office where you can discuss your options for updating metal amalgam fillings, call (520) 514-7203.