Dental restorations involve materials used to repair teeth damaged by decay, trauma, or other conditions. Two common materials employed for this purpose have distinct characteristics. One is a tooth-colored resin, while the other is an amalgam containing several metals.
The choice of restorative material carries significant implications for aesthetics, durability, and potential health considerations. The resin option offers a more natural appearance, blending seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure. Amalgam fillings, alternatively, have a long history of use and are known for their strength and resistance to wear, especially in areas subjected to heavy chewing forces. However, concerns regarding the mercury content of amalgam have led to increased scrutiny and the development of alternative materials.