Unlike the outdated amalgam (silver) filling, composite restorations are fillings using tooth colored materials. Composite restorations are superior to “silver” fillings for a number of reasons. First and foremost, the composites are tooth colored and therefore look like real teeth, no silver fillings peaking out of your mouth when you smile. More importantly, the composites actually strengthen the damaged tooth.
Another restoration technique is a custom made “inlay” or “onlay.” These laboratory fabricated restorations, which are tooth colored, are chemically bonded internally to the tooth. They are even stronger and longer lasting than composite restorations and are ideal for the replacement of old amalgam fillings and for the restoration of larger decayed tooth surfaces. Inlays and onlays can be a more conservative option than a crown.
