Simply put, Amalgam fillings are made from a toxic metallic material that contains mercury which do not belong in the mouth…
Here at Larry Saylor’s Dental Practice in Brandon, Florida we can remove unsightly amalgams fillings and replace them with safe and natural-looking tooth colored fillings that are attractive, durable and100% mercury free.
The facts about amalgam fillings
Although Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry for over 100 years, recent research has revealed some startling information about this filling material.
- Amalgam fillings are comprised of an alloy containing up to 50% toxic mercury (this can be almost as much mercury as a thermometer!)
- mercury which can be released due to temperature changes in the mouth, chewing or brushing – this can cause your teeth to split and crack
- The WHO (World Health Organization) has determined that amalgam fillings contribute to more mercury build up in a person’s body than all other sources of mercury combined
- This type of filling material is simply packed into the void created by decay, and without a complete seal decay can continue to develop underneath the filling
- Amalgam can darken over time as it corrodes. This does not affect the function of the filling, but many people find it less attractive than
- tooth colored materials
- Amalgam fillings are also hazardous for the environment, and are banned in environmentally conscious countries such as Sweden and Norway.
Replacing your amalgam fillings
If you wish to replace your old amalgam (silver) fillings with the safer, more visually appealing white (composite) fillings, Dr. Saylor can help you. Today, several dental filling materials are available. Teeth can be filled with gold; porcelain; or tooth-colored, plastic, called composite resin fillings. During your consultation we will assess your entire mouth as well as the amalgam treated tooth to determine the type of filling that is best for you.
What steps are involved in filling a tooth?
Filling a tooth a simple process, as it removing amalgam and replacing it with one of the aforementioned materials. For your comfort, we can use a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to be filled, before we remove the decayed area.
Next, we then ensure all of the decay has been removed before preparing the space for the filling by cleaning the cavity of bacteria and debris. Should the decay be near the root, we may first put in a liner of material to protect the nerve. After we have removed the decay and cleaned the area, the tooth-colored material is applied in layers. A special light hardens each layer as it is applied. When the multilayering process is completed, we will then shape the composite material to the desired result, trim off any excess material, and polish the final restoration.
To discover more amalgam fillings or to book an appointment here at Larry Saylor’s Dental Practice in Brandon, Florida, please do not hesitate to contact us (813) 689 4226
