Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which is not good for your health. Composite resin or porcelain fillings are a better choice. But it is important to talk to your dentist before choosing a restoration material.
Your dentist will examine your tooth and discuss the best option for you. He will consider your preferences, medical history, and cost considerations.
Amalgam is a good material for fillings
Amalgam fillings are a good option for many patients. They are durable and cost-effective, and they can be used to repair cavities in both small and large teeth. However, they have some drawbacks, including their mercury content and grey appearance.
Despite containing mercury, amalgam fillings Bowling Green KY are considered biocompatible and well-tolerated by the majority of patients. Once the mercury combines with other elements in the dental amalgam, it becomes chemically bound to them and is not poisonous. In addition, dental amalgam is less expensive than tooth-colored composite fillings.
Amalgam fillings are also easier to place than composite fillings, making them a good choice for children and special needs patients who may have trouble keeping still during treatment. However, it is important to discuss your options with your dentist. In addition, pregnant women should avoid amalgam restorations because mercury can pass through the placenta, leading to birth defects and other complications. It is also advisable to inform your dentist about any changes in the condition of your amalgam fillings, as they may be indicative of underlying problems.
It is durable
Amalgam is a durable dental filling material and can last up to 30 years. It is also less expensive than composites and can be placed quickly. Amalgam is a mixture of silver, tin, copper and zinc that is placed into a cavity. Mercury is added to bind the alloy and allows it to be shaped. It also accelerates the setting reaction and increases its strength and resistance to corrosion. Its disadvantage is that it can create microleakage which could lead to the recurrence of cavities in the same area.
Unlike metal amalgam fillings Bowling Green KY, white fillings don’t have to be removed in most cases unless they are damaged or cause problems. However, patients should inform their dentists if they experience pain or sensitivity in the area of their old fillings. This will allow the dentist to reevaluate the situation and recommend a suitable replacement for your needs. The alternative tooth filling materials such as porcelains, resins and ionomers have some potential risks that should be considered when selecting a restorative material. These include allergic reactions in both patients and dental personnel.
It is safe
While some people are concerned about the health repercussions of amalgam fillings, most available research supports that they are safe. This is especially true for adults and children. However, more research is needed for certain subsets of the population.
Amalgam is a combination of metals that have been used in dentistry for over 150 years. These include silver, tin, copper, and small amounts of mercury. The tin and copper provide strength to the filling, while the mercury acts as a binder. It helps the amalgam form into a flexible mass that can be easily packed into a cavity and hardened.
The low level of mercury in amalgam fillings poses little or no risk to most adults, but pregnant women and others with particular medical conditions may be at higher risk for exposure. If you are planning to get your amalgam fillings removed, it is best to choose a dentist who is trained in safe mercury amalgam removal techniques. This will reduce your exposure to mercury vapor during the procedure.
It is not natural looking
Despite their longevity, amalgam fillings Bowling Green KY do not look as natural as composite ones. They have a metallic glint when you open your mouth to laugh or smile, which some patients find unsightly. Additionally, they can darken the appearance of teeth over time and leave them looking grayish.
Nonetheless, dental amalgam is considered safe by the FDA and the British Dental Association. There is a low level of mercury vapour released when chewing, but this is not enough to cause any health problems. However, some patients are sensitive to the metal and may need to have their fillings replaced with porcelain or non-mercury-based fillings.
Amalgam is a mixture of silver, mercury, tin, and copper with small amounts of zinc and indium. The mercury is liquid at room temperature and helps the alloy bind with the healthy tooth enamel. However, in high doses, mercury can pass through the placenta, leading to stillbirths and birth defects. In addition, the mercury in amalgams can leak into the water supply and damage the environment.
