Dental Fillings

Most people will be faced with dental fillings at some point in their lives. While not exactly pleasant, these procedures are relatively simple and take far less time than the extensive dental work necessary if teeth are neglected.

Our Beverly Hills dentist is here to talk with you about the best treatment plans for your overall dental health and well-being.

Dental fillings can be made of both silver amalgam and a white, tooth-colored material which is primarily composed of plastic and fiberglass. Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, and it helps to be familiar with the differences in these two types of fillings.

Silver Fillings

Silver fillings, made from an amalgam of silver and other metals, have been used for many years and are the most popular choice for back teeth. Silver is sturdy and often lasts for life after a filling is placed, although some people have sensitivity to the metal and may feel cold or hot when eating, or may feel a metallic “spark” when chewing. For the most part, however, silver amalgam fillings have been the mainstay of restorative dentistry for years.

Silver fillings are generally less expensive than white fillings, as well. Because the silver amalgam used is so inexpensive to make, many dentists will use it by default on their patients unless the filling is going to be highly visible or the patient specifically requests an alternative.

White Fillings

Some people want their dental fillings to be undetectable. Although past practice has led most dentists to use inexpensive amalgam filling, many patients are now requesting fillings which match the tooth’s natural color.

White fillings are made from a strong composite of fiberglass, plastic, and other materials and are colored to match the tooth’s natural hue. In fact, the dentist can even “stain” the composite so that it more naturally matches the tooth’s shade.

White fillings are no better or worse than silver amalgam fillings in the final analysis, although they are more expensive and slightly less durable. For the most part, however, tooth-colored fillings are a perfect alternative if you do not want silver visible in your mouth.

Choosing dental fillings can be challenging, but it does not have to be a difficult decision if you have the right professional guidance.

Talk with our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist today about the best types of fillings and procedures for your particular dental needs.