Resin and Amalgam Fillings in Wilmington, DE
Amalgam Fillings: Benefits, Use & Longevity
Dental amalgam is a widely used filling material that has been in dentistry for over 150 years. It is made by mixing mercury with other metals to create a strong, durable compound. Amalgam is known for its affordability, strength, and long lifespan, as well as its ability to resist bacterial growth.
Because it stays soft briefly during placement, it can be easily shaped to fill irregular areas before hardening. Traditionally, amalgam fillings last about 10–12 years, although advances in composite materials have reduced this longevity gap in recent years.
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Composite Fillings vs. Amalgam: Which Is Better?
While amalgam is strong and long-lasting, there are situations where tooth-colored composite fillings are a better option. Composite materials allow for more conservative tooth preparation, especially for small restorations where removing additional healthy tooth structure would be unnecessary. They are also preferred for visible areas or in enamel regions beyond the tooth’s height of contour.
According to the American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs, both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration, and the best choice depends on the clinical situation and patient needs.
