If your child needs a filling to treat a cavity you basically have two options. One, you can go with a silver filling, also called an amalgam filling. The other choice is a composite or white filling, also called a tooth-colored filling. To help you make your decision, we’ve outlined some of the reasons why you might want to choose the latter.
A Discreet Appearance
One of the biggest advantages of a white filling is hinted at right in its name. White fillings are made from materials that match the natural color of teeth. This means that the filling will blend in seamlessly with the rest of a patient’s smile. We all know that it’s not easy building self-esteem as a kid. Not having to worry about a noticeable silver filling on one of their teeth can surely help your child smile with more confidence.
No Concern with Mercury
Aside from their color, white fillings are preferable to many people because there is no concern with mercury. Silver fillings are called amalgam fillings because they’re made from a mixture of different metals, including elemental mercury. The levels of mercury in these fillings are low and silver fillings are deemed safe. However, many parents would rather not expose their child to any mercury at all if there’s another option.
Less Invasive Procedure
Another advantage to white fillings is that they require less prep work on the tooth to place compared to silver fillings. In other words, we have to remove more of the tooth structure in order to bond a silver filling to it. With white fillings we can keep more of the natural tooth.
Fillings in San Antonio, TX
If you have more questions about the advantages of white fillings for your child’s dental care, give us a call at Schaenfield Pediatric Dentistry. You can also email our San Antonio practice, and one of our team members will send you a response as soon as possible.