Invented in the 1960s, a composite filling is a blend of plastic and ceramic compounds. Mimicking the semi-translucent look of natural teeth, these fillings can be hard to find if looked at carefully and can blend in naturally with its neighboring teeth.
Some of the Benefits of Composite Fillings include:
Blends right in – Composite fillings are nearly identical to your natural teeth and can easily blend right in without much as a problem
Reliable Adhesion – Because they’re made with a plastic/ceramic material, the composition of the filling allows it to adhere to the existing teeth.
Preserves Your Teeth – Less drilling is required with composite teeth, allowing you to keep your tooth remaining.
What about the Drawbacks of Composite Fillings?
Require Longer Periods of Installation – These fillings can take longer to install, but composite fillings do last longer despite this intensive procedure.
Most Insurance Won’t Cover The Costs – Because of the high cost of these fillings, fewer insurance companies will cover the fillings. Most insurance companies will only cover about 10% of the costs when it comes to dentistry work. If you have issues, speak with your dentist about the costs.
What other kinds of fillings are there?
Amalgam fillings are another kind of filling that has been around for a long time. The first kind of filling has been around since 1895 and was initially made with mercury, tin, copper, and silver. While mercury is still one of the main ingredients to the filling, it’s used in such exceptional quantities that it’s durable and harmless.
What are the Benefits of Amalgam fillings?
Excellent track record – These fillings have tested time for almost a century, and this is known to be quite reliable within dentistry.
Inexpensive – Because composite fillings can cost so much, amalgam fillings can be used as a cheaper alternative to a missing or broken tooth.
Long-lasting – These fillings have been known to last for over 10 to 15 years, and those who have had to replace them are far and few in between.
What about the Drawbacks of Amalgam fillings?
Noticeable – Because of the metal material, these fillings are considered to be quite noticeable when compared to the rest of your natural teeth.
Allergies – Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the metal itself, so if you’re thinking of getting an amalgam filling, talk with your allergy specialist about what you are allergic to and what you should avoid.
Which Filling is Right For Me?
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Finding the right kind of filling can take a lot of time and consideration. If you’re looking for some advice on what filling you should go with, contact Dr. Reynaldo Barbon at Superb Dental Care in Pasadena, CA. With a special group of dentist that knows what they’re talking about, they’ll be able to explain the filling process to you, give you advice on what you need for a filling, and help you manage a payment plan for the bills afterward.
