3 Dangers Of Amalgam Fillings

By Author: Randy Machen
Total Articles: 55
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For a long, long time, if you needed a filling for a cavity, your best option was amalgam. This metallic alloy is very durable, but it comes with several downsides. However, nowadays, we have another material to work with—composite resin.
If you still have amalgam fillings, you should seriously consider switching them for composite, tooth-colored fillings. Why? Here are just 3 of the potential risks that go with having amalgam fillings!
Amalgam Contains Mercury.
Although mercury isn’t the primary component of amalgam, it is one of the metals that create this filling material. Mercury has been linked to many diseases, conditions, and complications for both children and adults alike, which is why it is a good rule of thumb to avoid it as much as possible.
Biocompatible, tooth-colored fillings are made of ceramic particles mixed with a dental plastic material. It is non-toxic and actually reinforces tooth enamel.
Amalgam Can Expand and Contract.
As with many other metals and alloys, amalgam reacts to extreme temperatures. The heat can make it expand, and the cold can make it contract. As ...
... a result, these changes can cause cracks in the tooth enamel, damaging teeth even further.
Tooth-colored fillings do not alter and bond very well with enamel, so your dentist doesn’t have to remove as much structure for the filling, and you’re less likely to experience this type of tooth damage.
Amalgam May Cause Sensitivity.
Along with expanding and contracting with the temperature, metal alloys tend to be excellent conductors. This means that if exposed to extreme heat or cold, the amalgam can transfer the temperature to the tooth itself, causing uncomfortable sensitivity. Fortunately, tooth-colored fillings provide a barrier, protecting your tooth from the highs and lows.
In the end, it may seem unnecessary at first to think about replacing your amalgam fillings with composite resin, but when you think about the disadvantages of this material, it makes a lot of sense! Talk to your dentist today!