What’s an amalgam filling?

With an estimated one billion amalgam fillings placed every year, chances are you’ve seen one or two around. These fillings, also called silver fillings, are the most common materials used to treat dental caries. And while they’re called silver fillings, this material is actually not silver. It’s a combination of mercury, silver, tin, and copper.

Although this sounds complicated, this mixture of metals is what is known as an amalgamation. Hence the name “amalgam fillings.” These fillings are totally safe because once mercury is mixed with the other metals the poisonous nature of it is eliminated.

In fact, the amount of mercury released from a mercury filling is less than what is found in the air you breathe and water you drink.

Why do dentists use amalgam?

This material is the strongest available for fillings after gold and is much more affordable. The fact that amalgam has been the choice of dentists for over 150 years is a testament to the quality and durability of these.

The amalgam material is easy to work with, durable and affordable. While there are alternative to this material — like porcelain and composite — the alternatives are not as durable and much more expensive. These materials are better suited for front facing teeth like your canines since that is what most people will see. Amalgam is best for back teeth because that area is constantly beaten from chewing.

Patients that do not want an amalgam filling should talk to Dr. Kavety about the options available to them.

What if a patient has a mercury allergy?

This question occasionally comes up. The truth is, however, that mercury allergies are rare. In fact, less than one half of the population has a mercury allergy. Patients that do have a mercury allergy can be accommodated with an alternative material.

If you suspect you have a mercury allergy be sure to get to an allergist and have testing done. It could be mercury, but is more than likely some other irritant that is causing you problems.

I’ve heard that mercury fillings can be dangerous, can I get mine removed?

Any filling can be removed, however, it isn’t recommended that mercury fillings be replaced. The process of replacing the filling is expensive and causes unnecessary discomfort to patients. Additionally, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that mercury fillings are dangerous. If there was, they wouldn’t be the most common choice for dentists around the world, who have to mix the amalgam before using it on patients.

If you’re curious about fillings and the restoration process, give us a call. Dr. Kavety is always happy to discuss the options available to patients and come to a decision on an option that is best for you.