Update for our patients and community » LEARN MORE
At Granbury Dental Center, we believe knowledge is power. That’s why we’re dedicated to life-long learning, continuing education, and teaching our patients, community members, and other dental and healthcare professionals about the latest advancements in dentistry. From the latest research to new treatment methods and technologies, to basic knowledge of all things oral health, you’ll find everything you need to know right here on our blog. Follow along to keep your mouth, body, and brain sharp and healthy!
Traditionally, dentists have used what’s known as amalgam, or special metal alloys, to fill cavities. However, modern dental medicine has advanced to the point that Dr. Buske can offer patients a much better option for filling holes caused by tooth decay: composite fillings. At Granbury Dental Center, we would like to educate you on the benefits of tooth-colored, composite fillings, so please let this article serve as your personal fillings fact sheet.
Once upon a time, the choices for dental restoration materials were limited. Records dating back as far as 659 A.D. tell us that amalgams (mixtures of silver, mercury, tin, and/or copper) have been used widely for more than 1300 years.
There have been a number of scientific disputes (referred to as the amalgam war) over the health concerns of using mercury, but the American Dental Association has always defended the safety of amalgam fillings. Until recently, amalgam fillings were favored because of their strength, resilience, and relative ease of preparation and placement. In spite of their positive qualities, amalgams have three main drawbacks:
Modern dentistry offers many options for dental restorations. The most commonly used fillings are made of gold, amalgam, composite, or porcelain. We prefer composite fillings because they are:
Composite resin fillings are made from powdered glass and plastic, which is placed directly on the tooth in thin layers, then shaped and polished. Dr. Buske use special curing light sources to accelerate the bonding process.
Composite fillings are generally more durable than porcelain, significantly less expensive than gold, and do not expand and contract like amalgam fillings. Patients often prefer composite fillings because they look just like natural teeth.
If you have any questions about fillings or would like to visit Granbury Dental Center for a consultation, please contact us today!
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Sources
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-fillings
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_restoration
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amalgam_(dentistry)
Our Location
3412 East Hwy 377
Granbury, TX 76049
Proudly Serving Texas
Since 1982
Office Hours
MON 8AM - 5PM
TUE 8AM - 5PM
WED 8AM - 6PM
THU 8AM - 6PM
FRI 8AM - 3PM
Please call us at (817) 573-3761 or fill out the form below to request an appointment.