Amalgam fillings were previously the choice of material for dental fillings but it can cause cracks and stress which often results in the tooth or filling fracturing.
Removing an amalgam filling is a simple procedure and reduces the bioburden of mercury on your body. Most are replaced with composite resin.
Composite resin offers a natural coloured filling which bonds to the tooth. This material is strong, durable and easily colour matched to the adjacent teeth.
You may require a filling if you are suffering from:
It is advisable that you visit your dentist and hygienist every six months to maintain your overall oral health. Regular check-ups allow them to monitor your teeth and prevent decay from taking hold. Once decay has formed and broken through the enamel, the cavity should be filled as soon as possible to stop it spreading through the tooth dentine. If goes too far into the dentine, there is a high risk bacteria will compromise the nerve and cause an infection or large cavity.
Composite resin is ideal for small to medium-sized fillings. They are not recommended when restoring large cavities. Crowns, inlays and on-lays are better treatment options as they provide superior strength and aesthetics.
