Dental amalgams (silver fillings) were first used in the 1800’s. For decades, amalgam was considered the only appropriate choice of filling material for posterior teeth. Amalgam fillings had a number of positive characteristics that made it the best material for use in these difficult and challenging parts of the mouth. These included: long-term success relative ease of placement […]
We are lucky that we live in an era where we have a large variety of materials available for use in the restoration of damaged teeth. Prices vary, but composites fillings (white fillings) can cost up to two times the price of silver fillings. White fillings are much more technique sensitive and require greater time […]
After receiving a composite restoration, you may experience postoperative sensitivity. The materials may continue to cure over 48hours and this produces some post placement discomfort. Another disadvantage relates to the shade of composite fillings over time. The shade can change slightly if the patient drinks tea, coffee or other staining foods. Composites tend to wear […]
Amalgam materials have been successfully used for over 100 years. Disadvantages of amalgam include possible short-term sensitivity to cold after the filling is placed, which is also true of other dental materials. The silver-colored filling is not as natural looking as one that is tooth-colored and might be visible when you laugh or talk. To […]
Most people recognise dental amalgam as silver fillings. Dental amalgam is a mixture of mercury, silver, tin and copper. Mercury, which makes up about 50 percent of the compound, is used to bind the metals together and to provide a strong, hard, durable filling material. After years of research, mercury has been found to be […]
Composite resins, or tooth coloured fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural. […]
The incidence of allergy to mercury is far less than one percent of the population. People suspected of having an allergy to mercury should be tested by qualified physicians, and, when necessary, seek appropriate alternatives. Should patients have amalgam removed? No. To do so, without need, would result in unnecessary expense and potential injury to […]
Mercury can be found in air, food and water. We are exposed to higher levels of mercury from these sources than from a mouthful of amalgam.
Alternatives to amalgam, such as cast gold restorations, porcelain and composite resins are more costly. Gold and porcelain restorations take longer to make and can require two dental appointments. Composite resins, or white fillings, are aesthetically appealing but require a longer time to place the restoration. It should also be known that these materials, with […]
Mercury in dental amalgam is not poisonous. When mercury is combined with other materials in dental amalgam, its chemical nature changes, so it is essentially harmless. The amount of mercury released in the mouth under the pressure of chewing and grinding is extremely small and no cause for alarm. In fact, it is less than […]
