Difference Between White Fillings and Silver Fillings

White Fillings: The Basics. Silver-colored fillings—also called dental amalgams—are made of a combination of metals such as silver, tin, copper and mercury. White fillings—also called composite fillings—are made of plastic and ceramic.

1. Is a white filling better than silver?
2. How long do the white fillings last?
3. Do dentists use silver fillings anymore?
4. Can silver fillings be replaced with white?
5. Why are white fillings so expensive?
6. Are white fillings worth the money?
7. Can I brush my teeth after filling?
8. Are white fillings strong?
9. What not to do after filling?
10. When did Dentists stop using silver fillings?
11. Should I have my silver fillings removed?
12. Why are silver fillings bad?

Is a white filling better than silver?

White fillings are weaker than silver fillings and might not last as long. There is a higher chance of cavities reforming under the filling, called recurrent decay, with white fillings. White fillings tend to be more expensive than silver fillings.

How long do the white fillings last?

How Long Do White Fillings Last? Since metal fillings aren't made of metal, it's natural to worry about their durability. Although they are made of a composite resin material, they can last for 10 years or longer with the right aftercare.

Do dentists use silver fillings anymore?

Silver amalgam fillings were the traditional fillings that dentists used when someone had a cavity years ago. In fact, dentists have been using them for over 150 years to fix dental issues. They usually last a minimum of 10 to 15 years and can sometimes last for decades.

Can silver fillings be replaced with white?

Many patients often wonder, can silver fillings be replaced with white fillings? The answer is yes. Dental amalgam, or “silver filling material” has been used for over one hundred and fifty years. It is one of the sturdiest, safest and inexpensive materials used to fill cavities.

Why are white fillings so expensive?

All filling costs vary dependant upon the size and location of the filling and tooth. ... White fillings are around £10 more than silver fillings, this is mainly due to the higher cost of materials involved with placing a white filling.

Are white fillings worth the money?

White fillings also works well on the sides of teeth. If properly applied, white fillings adhere well to teeth. Your dentist can also save more of your natural tooth's material instead of removing it during drilling. Another reason patients appreciate white fillings is because of its relatively low cost.

Can I brush my teeth after filling?

There is no need to wait to brush your teeth after a dental filling. You can continue brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day.

Are white fillings strong?

Modern white fillings are much stronger than those from several years ago. ... They are, however, very strong and a well-placed amalgam filling can last for several years. More modern white fillings are also now very strong and can also last several years when placed correctly and when used in the correct situation.

What not to do after filling?

What Not to Do After Getting a Filling

1. Avoid Chewing While Your Mouth Is Numb. After getting your filling, your mouth will feel numb. ...
2. Foods to Avoid After Dental Filling. Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods for up to two weeks especially if you got a silver filling. ...
3. Avoid Biting Too Hard. ...
4. Refrain from Grinding Your Teeth. ...
5. Caring For Your Fillings. ...
6. Visit Us Today.

When did Dentists stop using silver fillings?

"Amalgam filling use is in decline," he says, and he hasn't used it since 1997. Other options, such as white composite or porcelain filling materials, look better and are preferred by many patients, he says.

Should I have my silver fillings removed?

There is no medical reason for having silver fillings removed as a precautionary measure. ... So if your silver fillings are intact, you have not experienced any adverse effects (such as an allergic reaction) and there is no decay under the filling, it may be better to leave your amalgam fillings just as they are.

Why are silver fillings bad?

The ADA also says that the substance that makes up silver fillings, known as dental amalgam, has been used safely for 150 years. But some research has suggested the fillings may cause health problems that range from chronic fatigue-like symptoms to neurological problems, including Alzheimer's disease.