Composite vs. Amalgam Dental Fillings: Choosing the Right Material for Your Smile
At Hidden Ravines Dental in Powell, Ohio, we prioritize your health, safety, and long-term oral wellness. That’s why we use only composite (tooth-colored) fillings—a modern, mercury-free alternative to outdated amalgam fillings.
While amalgam fillings are still permitted in the United States, they have been banned in the European Union due to health concerns. In fact, most dental schools no longer teach the use of amalgam, and many dental practices have phased it out completely. At Hidden Ravines Dental, our composite fillings are free of BPA, Bis-GMA, mercury, metals, and other potentially harmful materials.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made from a resin material blended with powdered glass. They are designed to match the natural color of your teeth, making them a highly aesthetic and durable option for restoring decayed or damaged teeth.
Benefits of Composite Fillings Over Amalgam
1. Natural Appearance
Composite fillings blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, making them ideal for visible areas like the front teeth. They’re also used in cosmetic dentistry to repair chips, close gaps, or reshape teeth.
2. Tooth Preservation
Unlike amalgam, composite material bonds directly to the tooth, reinforcing its structure. This allows dentists to remove less healthy tooth material, preserving more of your natural tooth.
3. Reduced Sensitivity
Composite fillings are less sensitive to temperature changes, reducing the risk of discomfort from hot or cold foods. Amalgam can expand and contract with temperature, which may lead to cracks or fractures in the tooth over time.
4. Mercury-Free and Biocompatible
Concerned about mercury exposure? You’re not alone. Composite fillings are 100% mercury-free, offering peace of mind for health-conscious patients.
5. Durability and Longevity
With advancements in dental materials, modern composite fillings are strong, long-lasting, and able to withstand the pressures of daily chewing, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
6. Lower Risk of Tooth Fracture
Teeth restored with amalgam fillings are more likely to fracture over time, often leading to the need for crowns, root canals, or even extractions. Composite restorations minimize this risk by supporting the remaining tooth structure.
7. Conservative Treatment
Amalgam requires dentists to remove more of the healthy tooth to “lock in” the material. Composite fillings require less invasive preparation, resulting in stronger, longer-lasting teeth.
Looking for Composite Dental Fillings in Powell, Ohio?
At Hidden Ravines Dental, our team—Dr. Janet Wolery, Dr. Kelli Ehemann, and caring staff—are proud to provide safe, modern, and mercury-free dental fillings for families in Powell, Dublin, Lewis Center, and the surrounding Central Ohio area.
Call us today at (740) 369-1953 to schedule your appointment or learn more about the benefits of composite fillings.
Lear MoreWhy You Shouldn’t Skip Your Dental Check-Ups
Keeping your smile bright and healthy takes more than daily brushing and flossing. Regular dental check-ups are a key part of preventive dental care and play a critical role in your long-term oral and overall health.
Whether you’re visiting for a routine exam or a professional dental cleaning, here’s why scheduling those check-ups every six months is so important.
1. Early Detection of Dental Issues
Cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Without regular dental visits, you might not know a problem is developing until it becomes painful or more difficult—and costly—to treat.
Routine dental exams allow Dr. Janet Wolery and Dr. Kelli Ehemann to detect problems early, when treatment is simpler and more affordable. For example, a small cavity caught during a check-up may only need a filling, but if left untreated, it could require a root canal or extraction.
2. Professional Teeth Cleaning You Can’t Get at Home
Even with excellent brushing and flossing habits, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Over time, this buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Professional teeth cleanings remove stubborn tartar and help keep your gums healthy. These cleanings also give our hygienists the opportunity to spot early signs of trouble before they worsen.
3. Oral Health Impacts Your Overall Health
Poor oral health has been linked to serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Bacteria from untreated gum disease can enter the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation and other complications.
By staying current with your dental check-ups, you’re also supporting your overall health and well-being.
4. Personalized Dental Advice and Care
No two smiles are alike. During your check-up at Hidden Ravines Dental, our team will provide personalized advice to improve your oral hygiene, recommend the right products, and discuss how your diet and lifestyle impact your oral health.
5. Build a Lasting Relationship with Your Dental Team
Regular visits help build a strong relationship with your dentist. Dr. Wolery and Dr. Ehemann take the time to understand your dental history, goals, and concerns—ensuring personalized, consistent care at every visit.
Schedule Your Next Dental Check-Up in Delaware, OH
Most patients should see a dentist every six months, but your needs may vary. Prioritizing regular check-ups is one of the smartest investments you can make in your health.
Call Hidden Ravines Dental at (740) 369-1953 or contact us online to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Janet Wolery or Dr. Kelli Ehemann. We look forward to helping you smile with confidence!