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Fillings :
The most noticeable changes in dentistry over the past years have involved our filling materials. The evolution from the older silver-mercury fillings to today's esthetic tooth colored restorations has been remarkable. Please review the data below to help determine which type of filling is right for you.
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Amalgam: Silver-mercury fillings are called amalgams by dentists. These metal fillings have been around for a long time and are considered to be very durable, if not incredibly esthetic. Besides a poor esthetic result, amalgam fillings are also known, over time, to cause fractures in teeth. Many people these days are also concerned about the mercury content. To date no scientific data has emerged that would conclusively link a silver-mercury filling with any specific health issues. It is best to make your own evaluations and judgments on this matter. The American Dental Association is a good place to find additional information on this topic.
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Composite: Tooth colored fillings, often referred to as "porcelain" fillings" or "bonding", are the newest material to emerge for filling cavities. Composite fillings are actually closer to a plastic than porcelain. Many people like these fillings because they tend to look more like natural teeth. Fillings of this type are also bonded to the remaining natural tooth structure. This provides the tooth with additional support, which can limit its chances of fracture when compared to similar size amalgam fillings.
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Onlays/Inlays: The best choice in restoring a cavity is an Onlay or Inlay. These fillings are fabricated at a dental lab and bonded into place. This in turn allows for the creation of a very durable and esthetic result, which is superior to anything offered by either amalgam or composite. The filling is likely to last longer, look better and cause less post operative sensitivity. Please see our section on Onlays/Inlays for additional information.
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