Expert: Tony Appleton BDS DPDS - 10/27/2007

Question
I have a relative small "cavity" on the lower side of a a single face of a tooth. One dentist says we could wait and see, two others would prefer to fill it, one saying that the dentin is exposed, so needs to be filled. I personally believe this "cavity" has been with me for some time, severly impacted wisdom tooth several years ago.
1. Should it be filled, I presume yes?
2. What should it be filled with.
Silver(amalgam) is ok, the mercury "problem" doesn't bother me much. However, I heard that some of the healthy tooth will need to be removed in order for the filling to "sit properly".
Many of my older relatives have gold fillings, some for 40+ yrs. Is gold superior for filling material on the side of a tooth. Does it require less healthy tooth to be removed.
Also, composite, for this type of cavity, yes, no, maybe. Esthetics not a concern. I am more interested in longevity and less drilling.  

Answer
Hi Casey

I can't say whether it needs filling or not - you must decide which dentist's judgement you trust the most.

As to what material to use - you are right - to place amalgam (or gold for that matter) a retentive cavity needs to be created - this means removing healthy tooth tissue. An adhesive type of material (such as composite) can be bonded to the tooth and hence is less destructive.

Regards

Tony Appleton