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Cosmetic Dentistry – Composite Dental Filling

Cosmetic dentistry offers many options for people who are unhappy with their smile or who are looking towards enhancing it. Some of the treatments include smile designing, Zoom laser teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and composite white fillings.

Cosmetic Dental Filling: fillings are a common procedure used to treat decayed teeth. Earlier dental fillings were composed primarily of amalgam and other materials that left visible dark spots on the teeth. People now choose to have their older fillings replaced with newer, tooth coloured composite materials to match their existing tooth colour. Patients prefer white fillings due to aesthetic reasons and high strength; ask us about dental filling cost.

Difference between Composite (white) filling and Silver Amalgam filling

Silver Filling: Advantages	Disadvantages
- Proven. Amalgam fillings have been used for over a century.	- Noticeable. Unlike tooth-coloured resin, metal fillings are visible and aesthetically not pleasing.
- Economical. Amalgam generally cost less than resin composite fillings.	- Allergies. Some people are sensitive to the metals in amalgam
- Long-lasting. These fillings usually last 10 to 15 years and need not be replaced often.

Composite Filling: Advantages	Disadvantages
- Invisible and Strong. They are the same colour as your natural teeth, hence blend in. Newer nano composites are of very high strength and can withhold strong masticatory loads.	- More frequent replacement. Resin composite fillings tend to discolour after a few years.
- Preserves maximum amount of tooth structure. Due to the adaptability of resin composite material, less tooth structure needs to be drilled.	- Takes longer to be placed. Resin composite bonds to the surface of the teeth with bonding agents, will takes some time.

Your dentist can decide which type of filling is best for you, taking into account the size and location of the cavity, your dental history, cosmetic concerns and cost. If you have any questions about fillings, consult us at ‘32 Smile Stone Dental Clinic.’