Silver vs. White Dental Fillings

Most people are familiar with traditional metal dental fillings. Those silver-colored fillings are called amalgam fillings. While amalgam fillings are common, white (composite) dental fillings are becoming the standard, especially when it comes to pediatric dental restorations. A composite filling is more aesthetically pleasing and less noticeable than a traditional amalgam filling. But it isn’t all about looks. Many dentists are turning to composite dental fillings because they are just as strong and durable as the amalgam versions of the past. Here are the top 5 benefits of white dental fillings from Pediatric Dental Specialists–Omaha.

Superior Aesthetic Appeal

Amalgam used to be the only filling material option. The silver color is a tell-tale sign that your child has had a cavity, and that can lead to some self-esteem issues. A child might be ashamed that they have had a cavity filled, even if the cavity wasn’t a direct result of their dental hygiene habits. For example, sometimes children simply need fillings to fix chipped or cracked teeth, but they might not see it that way.

With a composite filling, our pediatric cosmetic dental experts at Pediatric Dental Specialists–Omaha can match the material to your child’s natural tooth color. This can make it seem as though a cavity has never happened because the filling blends in with the teeth. A child can then feel confident about their smile because no one will be able to tell there is a filling present.

Less Tooth Removal

A filling will require the removal of the damaged part of the tooth no matter which type of filling your child gets. But with a white filling, their dentist doesn’t have to remove nearly as much healthy tooth structure thanks to the bonding agent that secures it in place. By protecting more of your child’s natural tooth with a white dental filling, the long-term oral health of your child is preserved. 

Reduced Sensitivity

Another advantage of white fillings is that they reduce sensitivity. Since composite is metal-free, unlike an amalgam filling, there is less possibility for sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. Sometimes children will still experience slight sensitivity with things like ice cream or hot chocolate, but the composite material of a white dental filling cuts down on the severity of that sensitivity.

Supports Tooth Structure

Another benefit of composite is strong bond between the tooth and the filling. White fillings bond to the tooth with the help of a special bonding agent as opposed to amalgam fillings, which are held in place through mechanical retention alone. Thanks to the composite bonding process, there is also less chance of bacteria entering the tooth through a crack or chip later on, which is common with older metal fillings.

Metal fillings also need to be replaced completely if they become damaged. Your child’s dentist may be able to repair a white dental filling, however, without having to remove the entire previous filling. Then they can just contour and polish it to look like the rest of your child’s teeth. Also, today’s composite resins are strong and durable, meaning they work well even for cavities on the molars.

Mercury-Free

A final benefit of white dental fillings is that they contain no mercury. Though the small amount of mercury in amalgam fillings is deemed safe, many parents opt to avoid metal fillings altogether. With white composite dental fillings, mercury exposure is not a concern at all. White fillings are also a great option for kids who have metal allergies. They can get the dental care they need without the fear of reacting to the metal and needing further dental intervention. 

Visit Pediatric Dental Specialists to learn more about white dental fillings.

If your child is in need of a dental filling, meet with our team at Pediatric Dental Specialists–Omaha to learn more about our filling options. Our team will be able to explain the benefits of using composite fillings and answer any other questions you may have. Give us a call today to schedule your child’s appointment!