Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 9/26/2006

Question
I have filings that are silver and they were done many years ago. They have lasted very long. Now my dentist feels that I should take these old filings out and replace them with what they use now, which are white and look better.  Do they last as long as my old silver ones? And should I go through all this work.  He only has to do a few of them.  Please help

Answer
Nickey
Plastic materials are relatively new materials. We cannot tell you exactly how long they might last. They are looking good as far as longevity goes so far. Can I tell you they will last equally as long as silver? I do not think so. But they will last a pretty long time. Plus they have a lot of nice properties: bonds to tooth, looks good, does not transmit temperatures, does not weaken the tooth, etc. This is a personal decision for you to make. If you want the new materials or have a dislike for the silver, then you might want to do this. Good luck...let me know if you have any other questions.

Jeff Dalin, DDS