Composite Dental Fillings

When a patient has a cavity, Dr. Clayton M. Hansen may place a dental filling in American Fork, Utah, removing the decay from the tooth and then restoring the area with a filling material. Our dental office provides amalgam fillings and composite resin fillings.

Amalgam fillings are made of mercury, silver, tin, zinc and copper. Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are very durable, lasting for at least 10 to 15 years. Silver fillings usually outlast composite fillings since amalgams are strong and can better withstand the chewing forces in your mouth. Amalgam fillings are less expensive than composite fillings.

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, can be made to closely match the color of your natural teeth. Defective, leaking or “ugly” fillings can be replaced with these modern, tooth-colored materials. These materials have a natural appearance, do not cause sensitivity to temperatures and are mercury free. Composite fillings are chemically bonded to your tooth structure so that they have extra support. Tooth-colored fillings are versatile, as they can also be used to repair chipped, cracked, broken or worn-down teeth. Consult with our dentist to determine which filling material is right for you.

Regardless of which type of material is best for your restoration, the placement of the dental filling is similar. Over the course of one visit, our dentist will remove the damaged portion of your tooth, working to make sure that the decay does not come back again. Once the tooth is cleaned, we will fill in the area with the filling material, shape it to match your bite and then harden it to become a new part of your smile, allowing you to eat, speak and smile with comfort once again!

We encourage you to contact our dental office today to learn more and to schedule your next appointment.