When it comes to repairing a cavity or restoring a damaged tooth, dental fillings are one of the most common and effective treatments available. Today’s dentistry offers more than one solution for restoring a cavity, and understanding your options can make all the difference in both your oral health and the appearance of your smile.

What Are Metal (Amalgam) Fillings?

Metal fillings, often called amalgam fillings, have been used in dentistry for more than a century. They are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Known for their strength and durability, amalgam fillings have traditionally been used for back teeth where chewing pressure is greatest.

While metal fillings are long-lasting and cost-effective, they are very noticeable due to their dark silver color. Over time, they can also expand and contract with temperature changes, which may increase the risk of cracks in the surrounding tooth structure.

What Are Composite (White) Fillings?

Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin material that bonds directly to the tooth. Designed to blend seamlessly with your natural enamel, these fillings are an excellent option for patients who want a more discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution.

Composite fillings are especially popular for visible areas of the mouth, but they are also strong enough for many back teeth restorations. Because they bond directly to the tooth, they can help preserve more of your natural tooth structure compared to metal fillings.

The Aesthetic Advantage of White Fillings

One of the most significant benefits of composite fillings is their natural appearance. Unlike metal fillings, which can darken over time and become more noticeable, white fillings are carefully color-matched to your existing teeth.

At Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry, we focus on creating restorations that look and feel natural. Composite fillings allow us to restore a tooth without compromising the beauty of your smile. For patients concerned about visible dental work when speaking or laughing, white fillings offer peace of mind and confidence.

Preservation of Natural Tooth Structure

Composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings. Because the resin bonds directly to the tooth, it provides additional support and strength to the remaining enamel.

Metal fillings, on the other hand, often require more extensive shaping of the tooth to hold the material in place. This can weaken the tooth over time. By choosing composite fillings, patients can benefit from a more conservative and tooth-preserving treatment approach.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on several factors, including the location of the cavity, the size of the restoration, your bite pressure, and your personal preferences. During your consultation at Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry, we will evaluate your unique needs and discuss the best solution for your oral health and smile goals. For many patients, the aesthetic and structural benefits of white fillings make them the preferred choice.

Upgrade to Natural-Looking Fillings at Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry

Choosing between composite and metal dental fillings is an important decision that impacts both your oral health and the appearance of your smile. While metal fillings are durable and time-tested, composite fillings offer clear advantages in aesthetics, tooth preservation, comfort, and mercury-free composition.

If you’re ready to restore your smile with white fillings, contact Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry to keep your smile healthy, strong, and beautiful for years to come. Visit our office in Falls Church, Virginia, or call (703) 534-6226 today.