Making Your Smile Gorgeous

A few years ago, I started thinking carefully about what I could do to improve my smile. I had lived with crooked, yellowed teeth for most of my adult life, and honestly, I just wanted to feel beautiful. I started thinking about working with a cosmetic dentist, and before I knew it, I was in an office getting a complimentary consultation. I learned about a variety of different procedures that could improve my look, and it was really fun. I wanted to create a blog all about making smiles more beautiful, which is why I made this website. Check out this blog for great information about dentistry.

Amalgam Vs. Composite Fillings And Cavity Prevention Tips

Dentist Blog

Cavities happen - you may have one or two in your mouth, or maybe you've been apart of the no-cavity club for decades. If you do have a cavity, you have a choice on what type of filling you want. The days of those silver amalgam fillings being your only option are gone. Composite fillings allow you to have your cavity filled without anyone seeing it every time you talk, laugh or eat. Read on for the differences in amalgam and composite fillings.

Amalgam Vs. Composite Fillings

Amalgam

Amalgam fillings are the silver fillings that have been around for quite some time. These fillings are made up of tin, zinc, silver, copper and mercury. They are usually used for your back teeth (or molar teeth) and can last for over 10 years. They cost less than composite fillings. These fillings are very strong fillings and can be completed at your dentist in just one visit.

Amalgam fillings do not match with your teeth, so they are easily spotted in your mouth, and can tarnish over time. These fillings can expand and contract, which may result in tooth fractures.

Composite

Composite fillings are white fillings and can match with the color of your teeth. They can be used for all of your teeth, not just the molars. These fillings can last up to 5 years (or sometimes longer with proper care), and are made of fine glass and plastic. Composite fillings can be done in just one visit, although an inlay may take more than just one visit. 

Composite fillings can cost more than amalgam fillings. They can also stain over time especially if you are a coffee, tea or soda drinker, or if you are a tobacco user. 

There are pros and cons for both amalgam and composite. If you are looking for something that will last for quite some time amalgam may be the filling to use. If you are looking for something that blends with your natural teeth and the length of time the filling lasts, then composite may be a better option for you.

Cavity Prevention Tips:

  • Don't chew on non-food items. Ice can also damage your teeth and lead to cavities or tooth damage.
  • Skip eating sugary foods, snacks and drinks. Opt instead for healthier choices and drink plenty of water to keep teeth and gums healthy and hydrated.
  • Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste, making sure to get on the top of your molars and in between teeth where plaque can hide.

If you have a cavity, be sure to visit your dentist for an exam and checkup, and to have the tooth filled. Ask your dentist which type of dental fillings are best for your teeth.

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30 June 2018