Composite Bonding Compared With Amalgam Fillings: What to Expect

What Happens With Bonding?

With composite bonding the dentist first looks at the tooth and gets the area ready. The part that is damaged is taken out if there is decay. Then the tooth is kept dry while the bonding material is put on.

The composite is added to the tooth in amounts. Your dentist shapes it carefully so it fits the tooth than sitting there like a lump of putty. A special light makes the material hard. After that the dentist checks your bite. Makes small changes where needed.

The Look Is Part Of It

This is where composite has an advantage in my opinion. The material can be matched to the shade of your tooth so the final result mixes in rather than showing that you have had dental work.

You might stop noticing it after a while. That’s a sign.

What Happens With An Amalgam Filling?

Amalgam treatment follows a traditional way. The dentist removes the decay. Makes the shape needed to hold the filling properly. The amalgam material is then put into the tooth and shaped before it hardens.

The main thing you’ll notice later is the look. Amalgam is silver coloured so it stands out against enamel. For a tooth some people really don’t mind. That’s okay.

How Different Does It Feel?

Both treatments involve the dentist working closely around the tooth so neither should feel strange. If you need anaesthetic the area will feel numb during treatment. Afterward your tooth may feel a little different when you bite down until your mouth gets used to it.

What Should You Expect Afterwards?

Composite fillings usually give you a tooth-coloured result away. You may have some sensitivity for a time especially when eating or drinking something very hot or cold. Your dentist will let you know if anything needs attention.

• A little sensitivity after is fairly normal especially if the tooth was already sensitive.

• Your bite should feel comfortable once the filling has been adjusted. If it feels too high let them know.

• Composite feels more hidden because it mixes into the tooth, which’s honestly a big part of its good points.

Which Experience Suits You?

If looks are important, to you composite bonding is the choice I would suggest. It gives the dentist freedom to make the repair look like part of your actual tooth and that matters more than people think.

Amalgam still has its place for certain back teeth and situations where your dentist thinks it is the best option. The right choice depends on the tooth itself how damage there is and what your dentist finds during the check up.