Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam filling is another type of mixture used to restore teeth. It is made of silver, tin, zinc, copper and mercury which comprises about 50% of the whole mixture. Amalgam filling is usually used in filling backs of the teeth and molars.

Advantages of amalgam fillings are:

• They are strong and can withstand forces due to biting and chewing.
• More affordable compared to other tooth-filling alternatives such as white composite fillings.
• Lasts longer than other tooth-filling methods as its lifespan may last up to atleast seven years or more.
• The entire procedure can be completed in one dental visit.

Disadvantages of amalgam fillings are:

• It does not match the color of the teeth (they are silver in color) that is why it is only considered if the areas to be covered are located at the back of the teeth or on the molars.
• It requires a large part of the teeth for it to be accommodated therefore some healthy parts of the teeth should be removed.
• The part of the teeth where amalgam meets the tooth may discolor in the long run. This is due to the fact that amalgam fillings tarnish after some time.
• There are people who are allergic to mercury and are not allowed to undergo this type of treatment.
• The amount of mercury in amalgams is almost similar to what people get from the environment, a fact which is based on studies and researches. So, one should also take into consideration the possible effects of mercury in the body.

Related topic:

White Composite Fillings