Clayton Pesillo, DMD
Lewisburg, Pa.
I enjoyed the composite vs. amalgam debate and have sent in my "vote." However, I feel compelled to respond further.
Unless I have missed some recent significant research, composite has one advantage over amalgam - cosmetics. Otherwise, existing composite materials are not better than or inferior to amalgam.
If a patient desires cosmetics and is willing to sacrifice durability and money to attain the cosmetic benefit of composites, I agree with the use of these materials on posterior teeth. However, I strongly object to the characterization of composite material as generally superior to amalgam and the implication that the patient is paying for a superior service and/or that the dentist is a superior dentist.
