The Latest in Bonding Technology Advancement
While silver fillings have been the first option for filling cavities for many years, they have always had the downside of cracking easily. Fortunately, dental technology has made major advancements in bonding technology and there are now superior options available. The fillings used in modern dentistry are far advanced in their ability to form a bond with your natural teeth. Not only is the bonding superior, but it is now much easier for dentists to repair cracked silver fillings.
Weaknesses in Silver Fillings
Researchers have always noticed some specific weaknesses in silver fillings:
- Silver fillings are almost certain to eventually crack. This is caused by the constant expanding and contracting of the silver when the temperature changes.
- Silver fillings have a tendency to wear down around the edges over time. Eventually, they weaken until they break.
- Once the silver breaks, the tooth is left exposed to additional decay.
- Silver fillings are composed at least partially of mercury. Once a silver filling breaks or cracks, it is almost certain that the mercury will leak and stain the nearby teeth and gums.
Advantages to Composite Fillings
- The composite fillings produced by this newer technology are clearly stronger and definitely more aesthetically appealing.
- Dentists now have superior options for filling cavities. They can also use composite fillings to repair silver fillings from years gone by. If you have silver fillings that have been done in previous years, Dr. Fisher can lower your expectations of future dental issues by replacing the troublesome silver fillings with the superior composite fillings.