If you got a cavity filled as a child, there’s a good chance you got an amalgam filling. Typically silver in color, these old fillings can still be found in the mouths of many adults today. However, there is now a better solution: composite dental fillings provided by William Taylor, DDS, Dr. Jeff Martin, and Dr. Melvin Abraham of Martin Taylor Dentistry. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about these revolutionary dental fillings.

What Are Composite Dental Fillings?
These fillings are made with a tooth-colored composite resin material, which is a mixture of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles. Composite dental fillings blend seamlessly with your teeth, so no one but you will know you’ve had a decayed or damaged tooth.
How Are Composite Fillings Different From Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings are made with a mixture of metals. In most cases, they have a silver color that is visible in your mouth. Alternatively, composite resin fillings are the same color as your teeth, so it’s impossible to differentiate them from your natural teeth. Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings don’t have mercury in them, so the concerns about potential health risks are eliminated. Equally important, your dentist doesn’t have to remove as much of your healthy tooth material, so your tooth’s natural structure is better preserved.
Why Should I Replace My Silver Fillings With Composite Fillings?
If you have old fillings, they may be loose or unstable. Also, replacing your amalgam fillings with composite fillings will give you a more beautiful smile. It’s worth noting that many patients are concerned about the mercury content in amalgam fillings.
Are Composite Fillings as Durable as Amalgam Fillings?
Composite fillings are specifically designed to withstand the wear and tear teeth go through on a daily basis. Amalgam fillings last a long time, but you can expect the same durability from composite dental fillings.
How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?
Generally, composite dental fillings last anywhere from seven to ten years. You can make sure you get the maximum mileage out of your composite fillings by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing before bed. And don’t forget to visit Martin Taylor Dentistry every six months for routine checkups.
Can I Get Composite Fillings for Purposes Besides Cavity Fillings?
Composite fillings can also be used for other restorative purposes, as well as in cosmetic dentistry. These include:
- Reshaping of teeth if they’re uneven or misshapen.
- Repairing cracks and chips in teeth.
- Closing gaps between teeth.
- Cosmetic dental bonding to mask minor imperfections or discoloration.
How Can I Schedule an Appointment for a Composite Dental Filling in Tucson, AZ?
To learn more about composite dental fillings, contact William Taylor, DDS, Dr. Jeff Martin, or Dr. Melvin Abraham at Martin Taylor Dentistry in Tucson, Arizona. Whether you need a cavity filled or want to replace your old amalgam fillings, the friendly and professional team can be reached at (520) 600-6925. Give us a call or use our online form to schedule your appointment today.
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