Dental Filling Near You
A dental filling’s purpose is to strengthen, protect, and repair teeth damaged by tooth decay. Amalgam has long been one of the most popular types of fillings, but each type of filling has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at amalgam fillings so that you can get a better idea of what might work best for you if you should need a dental filling.
History of Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for almost two centuries to fill cavities. The quality of these fillings has dramatically improved over the years, as well as the dental techniques used to place them. According to the World Health Organization, amalgam is the most commonly used type of dental filling worldwide.
Amalgam dental fillings are often known as “silver fillings,” due to their color, which tends to become darker over time. Amalgam dental fillings are also commonly known as “mercury fillings,” because of their mercury content.
Amalgam is a mixture of the following:
- Elemental mercury
- Silver
- Tin
- Copper
What Concerns Are There With Mercury and Its Effects on the Body?
Initially, there were some legitimate concerns about amalgam fillings and their mercury content. In the early days, this filling material was formulated and applied somewhat haphazardly. In the years since, dental amalgam has come to be generally regarded as safe. The FDA (Food And Drug Administration) considers mercury fillings to be safe for most patients.
Why Is Amalgam Still Used To Fill Teeth When Composite Materials Are Available?
The main disadvantage of amalgam fillings is that they do not blend in with the rest of a patient’s smile. This metallic look is not a problem when a filling is required in one of the back molars; however, some patients prefer tooth-colored fillings like composite.
Even though composite offers a more natural look, amalgam is still commonly used, largely because it is less expensive and more likely to be covered by insurance. Amalgam is also easier to place; so the patient spends less time in the dentist’s chair.
What Is the ADA’s Position Regarding the Use of Silver Amalgam Fillings?
The ADA has stated that it considers amalgam fillings to be “durable, safe and effective” for most people.
When Is It Appropriate To Use Composite Fillings?
It requires more skill and time to place composite fillings than amalgam dental fillings. The dentist must ensure that the surface of the tooth remains completely dry while it is being etched, and the composite is applied in layers that are cured one at a time.
Since composite, unlike amalgam, bonds chemically to the tooth structure, less tooth structure requires removal in the process.
Getting composite fillings may make sense for you if you require a filling in the front part of your mouth where your teeth are more visible. However, composite does not make as much sense when large fillings are required.
What To Expect
If you are only getting one filling, expect to spend about an hour at your appointment. Your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Next, they will drill into the tooth enamel and remove the tooth decay. They will shape the area in preparation for receiving a filling.
Finally, your dentist will place the filling on top and bond it to your tooth. Once the bonding process is complete, they will carefully finish and polish the tooth.