Revitalize your smile with our high-quality dental filling services! We offer a range of options to suit your needs, including natural-looking composite (white) fillings, durable amalgam (silver) fillings, and versatile glass ionomer fillings that balance aesthetics and function. Whether you're treating a cavity or replacing old fillings, our team ensures safe, effective, and comfortable care tailored to you. Learn more about each type of filling using the links below:
Composite fillings are a natural-looking solution for repairing teeth affected by decay, cracks, or fractures. After removing the damaged portion of the tooth, your dentist will restore it with a tooth-colored composite material, ensuring a seamless blend with your natural teeth.
There are various types of filling materials, each with unique benefits. Your dentist will help you choose the best option for your needs. Composite fillings are among the most popular choices, along with silver amalgam fillings. Because they closely match the natural shade of your teeth, they are especially well-suited for front teeth and other visible areas.
While composite fillings are highly durable, they are not permanent and may require replacement over time. With proper care, they can provide long-lasting strength and aesthetics, helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
How are composite fillings placed?
Composite fillings are typically placed in a single appointment. After numbing the area, your dentist will remove any decay and thoroughly clean the space. If the decay is close to the nerve, a protective medication may be applied to ensure added comfort and protection. The composite material is then carefully placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth’s natural shape and function.
It’s common to experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold after getting a composite filling, but this usually subsides as your tooth adjusts.
At the end of your visit, you’ll receive care instructions to help maintain your filling. Practicing good oral hygiene, maintaining a healthy diet, and keeping up with regular dental check-ups will help extend the life of your restoration.
Dental Amalgam (Silver Fillings)
Dental amalgam has been a trusted filling material for over 150 years, helping millions of patients restore teeth affected by decay. Made from a combination of metals—including silver, tin, copper, and liquid mercury—amalgam is known for its strength, durability, and affordability.
Why Is Mercury Used in Amalgam Fillings?
Mercury is essential in amalgam because it binds the metal particles together, creating a strong, durable, and long-lasting filling. Its unique properties make it the only metal that remains liquid at room temperature, allowing it to form a secure bond within the tooth structure.
How Are Amalgam Fillings Placed?
To place an amalgam filling, your dentist will first remove the decayed portion of the tooth and carefully shape the cavity. The amalgam material is then mixed under controlled conditions and placed into the prepared space, where it quickly hardens into a strong, lasting restoration.
What Should I Consider Before Choosing an Amalgam Filling?
Choosing the right filling material is a personal decision, and our team at Westwoods Dental is happy to guide you through your options. Here are some key points to consider:
Benefits of Amalgam Fillings:
✔ Strong & Long-Lasting – Amalgam is highly durable, making it ideal for molars that endure heavy chewing.
✔ Cost-Effective – A more affordable option compared to some alternative materials.
✔ Seals Microscopic Gaps – Over time, amalgam fillings corrode slightly, helping to seal tiny spaces and reduce the risk of further decay.
Considerations & Safety Information:
Mercury Content – Amalgam contains elemental mercury, which releases low levels of vapor that can be inhaled. However, studies reviewed by the FDA have found no evidence of harm in adults and children over the age of six.
Special Populations – While there is limited clinical data on the effects of amalgam on pregnant women and young children, mercury exposure from fillings is considered well below harmful levels according to the EPA and CDC. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have concerns, speak with your dentist about your options.
Allergic Reactions – Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to mercury, silver, tin, or copper. If you experience any reactions, discuss alternative treatment options with your dentist.
For more detailed safety information, visit the American Dental Association (ADA) website at www.ada.org.
Is the Mercury in Amalgam the Same as the Mercury in Fish?
No. The mercury in dental amalgam is elemental mercury, which releases vapor that is primarily absorbed through the lungs. In contrast, the mercury found in fish is methylmercury, an organic form that is absorbed through the digestive system. Methylmercury is more toxic than mercury vapor, and the body processes these two forms of mercury differently.
Should I Have My Amalgam Fillings Removed?
If your amalgam fillings are in good condition and there is no underlying decay, the FDA does not recommend removal. Removing healthy fillings unnecessarily can damage your tooth structure and expose you to more mercury vapor during the process. However, if you have an allergy or sensitivity to amalgam components, speak with your dentist about alternative options.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
For patients with high cavity risk or teeth that aren't suitable for traditional composite (white) fillings, glass ionomer fillings offer an excellent alternative. These fillings have an opaque white appearance, providing a selectively aesthetic option while maintaining durability. Glass ionomer is particularly beneficial for:
✔ Patients prone to cavities
✔ Teeth in areas with less biting pressure
✔ Specific cases where composite fillings may not be ideal
If you're considering this option, feel free to ask your friendly Westwoods Dental team for more information!