Why Is Your Dentist Recommending a Metal Filling?

Fillings all do the same job on teeth; however, not all fillings are made from the same materials or look alike. For example, some fillings are made from white resins while others are made from metal amalgams.

If you're used to having resin fillings, then you may be surprised if a dentist tells you that they prefer to fit a metal filling to fix one of your teeth. Why does your dentist think that an amalgam filling is the best solution?

Your Filling Won't Be Visible

If your dentist wants to use a metal filling, then the tooth that needs work will normally be at the back of your mouth. Dentists don't want to mar your smile by using this kind of filling on a front tooth.

Given that the tooth isn't obviously visible, your dentist may simply feel that you can get away with having a metal filling on it. If the tooth needs to be filled at the side, then the metal may be virtually invisible; even if the filling is on the top of the tooth, people won't see it easily.

Plus, these fillings may work out cheaper than resin fillings that have to be mixed to blend in with the colour of a tooth. The type of tooth that needs to be filled may also play a part in your dentist's recommendation.

Your Tooth Needs a Strong Filling

The molars at the back of your mouth are your biggest teeth. These teeth have to do a lot of grinding and chewing when you eat. So, any fillings you have in these teeth need to be strong enough to put up with a lot of wear and tear.

While resin fillings are strong, they may not last as long on back teeth as metal fillings. They may need to be replaced more often because they may get more easily damaged as you use the tooth over the years.

Metal amalgam fillings are usually stronger than their resin counterparts. They may give the tooth a stronger surface that doesn't wear down as easily. So, your dentist may feel that this additional strength outweighs the benefits of having a white or tooth-coloured filling.

If you aren't sure whether or not to have a metal amalgam filling, ask your dentist why they think that this is the best option for the tooth. If you would really prefer to have a resin option instead, your dentist will be able to do this for you.