Dental sealants are an effective, preventive treatment to prevent tooth decay. Your dentist applies a plastic film to the chewing surface of teeth. This creates a protective barrier on your tooth enamel and prevents food particles, plaque, acids, and bacteria from penetrating the tooth’s surface. Sealants can last several years before it needs to be reapplied.
Dental amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years. Like composite fillings, amalgam fillings are used to restore a tooth after decay. Amalgam restorations last almost double the time of composite fillings–between 10 and 12 years. In addition, they provide you with a low cost, strong and durable filling option.
Both Amalgam and Composite Fillings are considered safe and effective for tooth restorations.
If you have silver/mercury fillings and are looking to achieve a more natural looking smile, composite fillings may be a great option. In addition to strengthening your teeth, composite fillings also aid in preventing broken teeth in the future. The composite material we use has many advantages over silver fillings including: being carefully matched to your existing tooth structure and added stability.