What is the difference between mercury amalgams and white composite fillings?

MERCURY AMALGAMS

• 50% mercury
• can fracture teeth
• not bonded –leak, weaken tooth causing recurrent decay
• conduct heat and cold
• expand and contract
• large restorations require pins for strength-further compromising the tooth
• discolors surrounding gums and tooth structure

WHITE COMPOSITE

• material is more biocompatible
• life expectancy is longer than amalgams
• glued or bonded into place-no micro space that allows for recurrent decay
• increases strength of tooth because it holds rest of tooth together :amalgam acts as a “wedge”
• technique sensitive-use high quality materials, rubber dam etc.
• little to no post op sensitivity
• more esthetically pleasing