Has Your Dentist Recommended Amalgam Fillings? Here Is All You Need to Know!
Tooth decay is an issue many people are at risk of since it is caused by a variety of issues, ranging from improper oral hygiene and bacterial infections to continual exposure to sugar and more. Once the decay sets in, it leads to tiny holes in the tooth that will only get progressively worse if not treated. While composite resin is the leading compound employed by dentists to fill these cavities, you should know that you have an alternative solution in the form of amalgam fillings. This option is typically prescribed to patients that prefer a more economical substitute, but the cost should not be the only reason to consider it. If your dentist has recommended amalgam fillings, here is all you need to know!
What differentiates amalgam fillings from their composite resin counterparts?
The main difference to note regarding amalgam fillings and composite resin is that unlike the latter, amalgam comprises metal alloys. Hence, they can be made from silver, tin, copper and even mercury! The amalgam alloy is malleable, so once the decayed parts are extracted from the tooth, the metal is shaped inside the resultant void to restore the integrity of the damaged tooth.
Do amalgam fillings pose a health risk?
The best concern that dental patients have regarding amalgam fillings is that if they contain mercury then they will be exposing themselves to mercury poisoning but this is untrue. Admittedly, while exposure to large amounts of mercury will have adverse effects on one's health, there are only trace quantities in amalgam fillings. Thus, the same way that one is continually exposed to trace amounts of this metal from the earth's surface without any dire consequences is the same way you should not be concerned about the negligible quantities in amalgam fillings.
What are the other advantages of amalgam fillings?
Amalgam fillings cost substantially less than their composite resin counterparts. The second reason why you should consider them is their guaranteed durability. The metals utilised are naturally resilient to wear so these fillings can last over a decade without requiring replacement, which contributes to their long-term cost efficiency. The endurance of amalgam fillings also means that you will have minimal dietary restrictions once you have your cavities filled, as the alloys can withstand exposure to a considerable amount of force without being vulnerable to premature damage.
What are the limitations of amalgam fillings?
One drawback of amalgam fillings is that they are conspicuous, unlike their tooth-coloured ceramic and composite resin counterparts are. Hence, they are better suited to cavities present in molars rather than your anterior teeth. It is also worth noting that these fillings would not be viable for individuals that have any metal allergies.
To learn more, contact a dentist.
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