Should i replace my silver fillings with white ones?

Silver amalgam fillings have been used for many years to restore decayed teeth, but many people are now opting to replace them with white composite fillings. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of silver fillings and white fillings and help you decide whether or not to replace your silver fillings with white ones.

Silver Fillings

Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, are made up of a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They are strong and durable, and they can last for many years.

Pros of silver fillings:

  • Strong and durable: Silver fillings can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making them a good choice for teeth that undergo a lot of pressure from biting and chewing.
  • Affordable: Silver fillings are generally less expensive than white fillings.
  • Long-lasting: With proper care, silver fillings can last for 10-15 years or more.

Cons of silver fillings:

  • Appearance: Silver fillings are very noticeable and can be unsightly, especially when they are on front teeth.
  • Mercury content: Some people are concerned about the mercury content in silver fillings, although the amount of mercury is considered safe by most dental professionals.

White Fillings

White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made of a mixture of plastic and glass particles. They are tooth-coloured and blend in with the natural colour of the teeth.

Pros of white fillings:

  • Appearance: White fillings are tooth-coloured and blend in with the natural colour of the teeth, making them more aesthetically pleasing than silver fillings.
  • Bonding strength: White fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, making them stronger than silver fillings.
  • Mercury-free: White fillings do not contain mercury, making them a good choice for people who are concerned about the potential risks of mercury exposure.

Cons of white fillings:

  • Cost: White fillings are generally more expensive than silver fillings.
  • Longevity: White fillings may not last as long as silver fillings, especially if they are placed in teeth that undergo a lot of pressure from biting and chewing.

Should you replace silver fillings with white fillings?

If you have silver fillings and are concerned about their appearance or the potential risks of mercury exposure, you may want to consider replacing them with white fillings. However, if your silver fillings are still in good condition and are not causing any problems, there may be no need to replace them.

It’s important to discuss your options with your dentist and weigh the pros and cons of each type of filling. Your dentist can help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.

In conclusion, both silver fillings and white fillings have their pros and cons. If you’re considering replacing your silver fillings with white fillings, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each type of filling and discuss your options with your dentist.

Dentist Explaining Tooth Extraction

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At Eyespy Eye and Dental Care, we offer the option of interest-free finance on any treatment over the value of £500. This allows more costly treatments to be paid for in equal monthly installments, making it easier to both budget and receive more complex treatment.

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