If you had a cavity at any time before the turn of the century, it’s likely your dentist gave you a silver-colored filling made of a mixture of mercury, silver, copper, tin and zinc. Although this material is still commonly used for molars and wisdom teeth, today white fillings are the preferred option. Here are a few great reasons to replace your old silver fillings with white ones.

What Are the Advantages of White Fillings?

1. Durability

Silver fillings have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. After that, the amalgam will start to break down, gradually exposing the surface of the tooth below and increasing the risk of decay. 

While white fillings generally last for a similar amount of time, they’re bonded directly to the tooth, making them less susceptible to failure or damage. If your existing fillings are already more than a decade old, it’s a good idea to discuss replacing them with your dentist.

2. Safety

The amalgam used to make silver fillings contains about 50% mercury, a highly toxic metal. Although the American Dental Association maintains that dental amalgam is a “durable, safe, and effective” material, many people have concerns about carrying a potentially dangerous substance in their teeth. While the debate around the safety of amalgam continues, you may find it gives you greater peace of mind to replace silver with white fillings instead.

3. Aesthetics

One of the driving factors behind the increasing popularity of white fillings is that this material more closely matches the natural color of teeth. As a result, many find that their smile looks more appealing when silver fillings are replaced with white ones. On top of that, you may find your confidence increasing since others won’t be able to tell that you’ve had any fillings at all.

If you’re interested in replacing your old silver amalgam with attractive white fillings, get in touch with Gladstein Dental Center in New Britain, CT. For nearly 30 years, these dentists have offered a full range of routine and specialized treatments, including fillings, cleanings, and dental examinations, root canals, dental implants, and more. Call (860) 223-1162 to book an appointment today and visit them online to learn more about their services.