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After decay
is removed from a tooth, something must be placed in that space to give strength
back to the tooth. Fillings
are the most common restorative procedure. Fillings can be silver or white.
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Silver
(amalgam) fillings: Silver fillings have been used
reliably for many years. Typically, silver fillings
are placed on back teeth (molars). They are an economical
way of providing a lasting restoration for most cavities.
The material is specially formulated to withstand years
of chewing pressure.
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White
fillings: White fillings are an alternative to silver
(amalgam) fillings. White fillings are made of a strong
composite resin that is matched to the surrounding tooth
color. In the past, white fillings were placed only on
front teeth, but recently a stronger more durable material
has been developed that can withstand the chewing pressure
of back teeth. |
White fillings are most
commonly used for:
- Cosmetic reasons
- Patients who prefer
mercury-free fillings
- Patients with sensitivity
to heat or cold - the composite resin doesn't conduct temperature changes
as fast.
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