Fillings (restorations of missing parts of single teeth)

Silver amalgam

• Average longevity is about 15 years.

• It has a low initial cost

• Best in small to medium sized restorations of posterior teeth ( premolars and molars).

Silver amalgam has been used for about 160 years for the restoration of teeth. This alloy contains silver, tin, copper, zinc, and about 50 per cent mercury. It has been a highly successful but unsightly material. Use of mercury in the body has been criticized since it's inception, but amalgam use is still supported strongly by the American Dental Association and other groups worldwide. Some few people in the overall population may be allergic to the elements in silver amalgam. However, you have several other options for restorations (fillings).

Gold

• Inlays and onlays have an average longevity of 20 years to life.

• They are gold colored

• Their initial cost is moderate to high.

• They may be used in any size restoration in any location where metal is not displayed to an objectionable level.

Composite (plastic resin) direct one day placements

• They have an average longevity of 5 to 15 years.

• They are tooth colored.

• Their cost is moderate.

• They are best used in small to medium sized restorations for any teeth.

• At this time they are considered to be competitive with silver amalgam.

Composite (plastic resin) indirect two appointment placement

• They have an average longevity of 10 to 15 years.

• They are tooth colored.

• Their initial cost is moderate to high.

• They are best used in medium size restorations for posterior teeth (premolors and molars).

Ceramic indirect (two appointment placement)

• Average longevity is 10 to 15 years.

• They are tooth colored.

• The inital cost is moderate to high.

• They are best used in moderate sized restoration for all teeth.

We will advise you about the best type of restoration for your teeth, and we will discuss any questions you may have.

Thanks for helping us to make this important decision.