Dental fillings are a great way to address minorly decayed teeth, restoring function and protecting you from more advanced deterioration. With a filling in your tooth, you’ll have the peace of mind that the decayed portion of your tooth has been fully removed and, with proper oral care after this appointment, you can avoid cavities and root canals in the future. 

However, before this appointment, you may find yourself searching the internet to learn more about amalgam and composite fillings. With these options available, you may not know which is right for you or your smile. In this blog, we’ll explore these two common filling options to help you feel more confident heading into your upcoming dental appointment.

What to Expect During a Dental Filling Appointment

If you’ve never gotten a dental filling before, it isn’t uncommon to experience some anxiety before this appointment. You may not even be concerned about whether they’re using amalgam or composite fillings, and may be more focused on what to expect. While it can be daunting, this is an incredibly common dental procedure. During your upcoming dental filling appointment, you can expect:

• Examination: Your dentist will examine the tooth to determine how much tooth decay you’re experiencing and what portion of the tooth needs to be drilled away.
• Numbing: Once they’ve examined the tooth, they will numb the area around the tooth to ensure your comfort during the drilling and filling process. 
• Grinding: Once the area is fully numb, your dentist will begin slowly drilling away at the decayed portions of the tooth until they reach healthy tissue. 
• Filling: The dentist and hygienist will slowly fill the tooth with a filling material to restore its appearance and function. 
• Bite Assessment: Before you leave, they will test your bite to ensure the filling is sitting comfortably with your surrounding teeth. 

You may experience some minor sensitivity following your filling appointment. However, this should subside within two weeks of the appointment. If you are experiencing sharp, severe pain, it is essential that you reach out to your dental team for support.

The Key Differences Between Amalgam and Composite Fillings

There are a variety of filling materials on the market, but the two most common dental filling materials are amalgam and composite. These materials are incredibly popular among dental teams due to their long-term reliability and durability. But, that doesn’t mean that both of them will be right for you. 

There are a few key differences between amalgam and composite fillings that will make one or the other a better option for you. Understanding the key differences can help you make the best decision for your comfort and oral health condition. If you are going into an upcoming dental filling appointment, consider the following before choosing a filling material.

	Amalgam Fillings	Composite Fillings
Appearance	Amalgam fillings are silver-colored, so they are much more noticeable than composite.	Composite fillings are made of resin and glass, which can be matched to your natural teeth.
Durability	Amalgam is an incredibly strong material, ideal for high-pressure chewing teeth like your back molars. They are designed to last up to 15 years.	While composite fillings are also durable, they aren’t quite as durable as their amalgam counterparts, and are designed to last for 5-10 years.
Cost	These fillings typically cost between $50 and $300 per tooth without insurance, which makes it a more affordable option.	Due to the material and labor associated with installation, composite fillings are generally more expensive, between $90 and $450 per tooth.
Sensitivity	Amalgam fillings are known for increasing your sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, which can be frustrating if you’re already experiencing sensitivity.	Composite fillings, on the other hand, are less sensitive to temperature, making them a better option if you want to limit your sensitivity to food and drinks.

Many dentists will allow you to choose your filling material. However, they will also offer suggestions of amalgam or composite fillings based on the size, location, and durability needs. It is important to take their recommendations into consideration, as they have a better idea of what the decay looks like deeper in the tooth. 

Which is Best for Your Long-Term Oral Health? 

Before you go into your upcoming filling appointment, you may be concerned with choosing the ‘best’ option possible. When deciding between amalgam and composite fillings, it’s important to understand that there is no universal “better” choice; the ideal filling material depends heavily on your unique oral health situation and personal preferences. 

While the cost-effectiveness and superior durability of amalgam make it an excellent choice for deep restorations in back molars, the aesthetic advantages and lower temperature sensitivity of composite fillings often make them preferable for visible teeth or for patients who already struggle with thermal pain. 

Your dentist will consider several factors, including the size of the cavity, its location, the amount of chewing pressure the tooth endures, and your aesthetic goals. Ultimately, the best option is the one that provides the most stable, long-lasting restoration for the specific tooth being treated, ensuring your long-term comfort and function.

How to Avoid Future Filling Appointments

If you’ve recently gotten a dental filling, you may be concerned about avoiding needing fillings in the future. While some dental patients will be more prone to cavity development, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of developing them in the future, including:

• Brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day. 
• Use fluoride-rich toothpaste and oral rinses to remineralize your enamel.
• Reduce snacking throughout the day and drink water to rinse away oral acids. 
• Schedule twice-yearly visits with your dental team. 
• Incorporate xylitol products, like gum or mints, into your routine. 
• Talk to your dentist about dental sealants, especially for children. 

Although you cannot completely eliminate your chances of developing cavities, taking these small steps can go a long way in preserving your overall oral health. If you need additional support, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental office for expert advice. 

Delivering High-Quality Composite Fillings to Patients in Northern Utah

Whether you believe amalgam or composite fillings are best for you, our team at Mountain View Dental is here to offer expert support through every dental appointment. From standard exams and fillings to tooth extractions, dental bridges, crowns, and more, we have years of experience helping patients across Northern Utah achieve their best oral health. If you’re looking for a reliable dental team to support your oral health journey, we’re the ideal team for you.

When you are ready to schedule a dental appointment with our team, contact us by filling out an online contact form or call us at 385-324-3557.