What is the difference between plastic and silver fillings?
A. Choosing between a white (plastic) or alloy (silver) filling to restore a decayed tooth can be confusing. Both types of fillings are composites. White fillings are a combination of resin, glass, and crystalline fillers. Alloy fillings are a combination of metals with silver and tin being most predominant. Obvious differences are their esthetic character and strength. White fillings are esthetically pleasing, often matching the tooth color perfectly, but have a distinct wear pattern which limits their longevity in the mouth. Alloy fillings are strong, typically durable for many years, but can be esthetically displeasing when placed too close to the front of the mouth. One of the greatest advantages of white fillings is their inclusion of fluoride as a component of their composite nature. The fluoride in white fillings has been shown to “escape” into surrounding tooth structure thereby strengthening the tooth and improving its decay resistance. The proper restoration for your child wi
