Providing Dental Fillings in Ann Arbor, MI

Traditional dental restoratives (fillings) include gold, porcelain, and composite/ amalgam. The strength and durability of traditional dental materials continue to make them useful for situations where restored teeth must withstand extreme forces that result from chewing, such as in the back of the mouth.

Newer dental fillings include ceramic and plastic compounds that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. These compounds, often called composite resins, are usually used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important. They can be used on the back teeth as well depending on the location and extent of the tooth decay. Composite resins are usually more costly than the older silver amalgam fillings.

What's Right for Me?

Several factors influence the performance, durability, longevity and expense of dental restorations:

• the components used in the filling material
• the amount of tooth structure remaining
• where and how the filling is placed
• the chewing load that the tooth will have to bear
• the length and number of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth
• The ultimate decision about what to use is best determined in consultation with your doctor. Before your treatment begins, discuss the options with your doctor.

White Filling (Composite) Versus Silver Filling (Amalgam)

There are several things to consider when making this decision. Following you will find the answers to some commonly asked questions. We hope this will assist you in making an informed decision.

1. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, does this mean they are dangerous to my health?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, "there is scant evidence that the health of a vast majority of people with amalgam is compromised" and the American Dental Association concluded that "there currently appears to be no justification for discontinuing the use of dental amalgam." The mercury that is in an amalgam filling is mixed with silver, tin, and copper creating a chemical bond that produces a safe alloy.

2. What are the disadvantages of amalgams?

Amalgam fillings require more drilling that results in the loss of more healthy tooth structure. Large amalgams can also lead to premature fracture of a tooth. Amalgams also stain the natural tooth overtime, and are not attractive in the mouth.

3. What are the disadvantages of composites?

Composite fillings require more skill, time and precision. There are many variables that can influence the success of a composite filling, for this reason there is a greater risk of failure overtime. This means that the filling could fall out, need to be replaced sooner, or decay could develop underneath the filling if diagnostic x-rays aren't taken regularly. The materials used for this type of filling are also more expensive.

4. Will my insurance cover a white filling?

Due to the fact that each policy is individual there is no simple answer to this question. Generally, most policies consider a white filling on a posterior (back) tooth to be cosmetic. This means that the filling is paid for at the amalgam rate and the additional cost for the tooth colored filling is your responsibility. This varies widely from policy to policy. In some cases there is no additional cost and in others it can be over $100 a tooth more for a composite filling. If you prefer the aesthetically pleasing composite filling, then it would be best if you consider your insurance as helping you with the cost of a cosmetic choice instead of covering most of the cost.

To learn more about the treatment of cavities listen to our interviews with Dr. Sud that aired July 11th on the Smile Files.