What is an EFDA?
An EFDA, or Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, is a dental care employee who specializes in the placement of preventive and restorative materials.
At our offices, Susan is our wonderful and experienced EFDA. If you ever need a filling, chances are Susan will be there helping with the procedure. Today, she is here to answer a common question about fillings.
What’s the difference between the silver filling and the white filling?
The silver filling is also called an amalgam filling, and the white fillings are called composite fillings.
One of the biggest reasons we use composite fillings over amalgam is the aesthetics. The nice thing about composite is that we are able to match the filling to your natural teeth. We have different shades and hues to allow us to perfectly match the color.
Another big reason is that amalgam fillings can cause more issues down the road. These fillings require retention groups or undercuts in the cusp of the teeth. When you put pressure on a silver filling, it actually flexes the cusps of the teeth and causes this micro fracturing. This can lead to tooth fracturing resulting in the need for a crown.
On the other hand, composite fillings are chemically bonded, not mechanically retained. So, it’s healthier for the tooth to do a composite filling over a silver filling.
Learn More About Fillings
If you are in need of filling, have no fear! The process is super quick, easy, and painless, and you don’t have to worry about walking around with those silver fillings anymore!
Contact us today with any questions and to schedule your appointment!
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