Difference in drilling needed for amalgam and resin fillings?

[FrightenedJerk]

I have several fillings prescribed, and have been wanting to get amalgam fillings instead of resin for my own (admittedly silly) OCD reasons regarding coloring agents in the resin. However, in my research I have discovered mention that for amalgam fillings to work, dentists need to "drill" into the tooth more than they do for resin fillings. So my questions are:

1) Is it a significant difference in the amount of drilling and work that needs done between the two?

2) I've posted a separate thread about how I have not been to the dentist in 30 years. Of course I have a lot of issues, and I'm sure that I have pretty good enamel erosion (I haven't discussed that particular aspect with the dentist/hygienist). Considering the erosion, would it be preferable for me to get resin and get less drilling?

Thanks!

 

[Gordon]

1) Is it a significant difference in the amount of drilling and work that needs done between the two?

No. Most of the drilling is to get the decay out. The overall shape of the cavity is dictated more by that than the filling material.

2) I've posted a separate thread about how I have not been to the dentist in 30 years. Of course I have a lot of issues, and I'm sure that I have pretty good enamel erosion (I haven't discussed that particular aspect with the dentist/hygienist). Considering the erosion, would it be preferable for me to get resin and get less drilling?

Ask the dentist.