Do I Need to Replace My Old Amalgam Fillings?
Do I Need to Replace My Old Amalgam Fillings?
If you have an amalgam filling - or several - you're far from alone because they have been used in dentistry since the 1900s. More recently, however, amalgam fillings have been on the receiving end of quite a significant amount of criticism, so I wanted to take this opportunity today to put your mind at ease if you have concerns.
What are Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings are made using an alloy powder, which typically contains a mixture of zinc, silver, palladium, and mercury. The mercury content of amalgam fillings is what has prompted the criticism, as it has been suggested that it can cause health concerns over time.
Importantly, there is much debate over the legitimacy of these claims, and there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that the mercury content of amalgam fillings poses a risk to human health. For this reason, unless there is a very clear and legitimate reason, most dentists won't recommend replacing amalgam fillings.
Reasons to Consider Replacing Amalgam Fillings
There are a number of reasons or scenarios in which you may want to consider replacing your amalgam fillings, so let's run through them now.
1. You've noticed chips or cracks
Any damage in the form of chips or cracks to your tooth will likely benefit from additional treatment, which may include replacing the filling.
2. There are fault lines in the structure of your tooth
Sometimes amalgam fillings can cause damage to the structure of the tooth, which may require some additional support with a crown.
3. The filling is loose
Loose fillings can allow food particles and bacteria to penetrate into the tooth, which may lead to decay. Having loose fillings replaced will help to protect the integrity of the tooth moving forward and may even prevent the need for more complex dental treatments, such as crowns or implants.
4. You've noticed increased sensitivity
It's always worth checking in with your dentist if you've noticed increased sensitivity levels in one or more of your teeth. If a tooth with a filling has become more sensitive, this may be an indicator that there's a problem with either the tooth or the filling itself. Having it checked by a professional can help to put your mind at ease and allow you to access timely treatment if required.
Are Composite Fillings a Better Option?
If you need to have a new filling or your dentist has recommended replacing an old amalgam filling, you may be wondering whether composite is a better option. There are many advantages to choosing a composite filling, including:
1. They can be colour-matched
As they come in a number of different shades, composite fillings are essentially invisible, which means they can be a more aesthetically pleasing option. However, they also have a number of other benefits that are worth noting when making your decision.
2. Only the decayed part of the tooth will be removed
With an amalgam filling, dentists will usually need to remove a portion of the healthy tooth along with the decay to ensure the filling remains securely in place. A composite filling is chemically bonded to the tooth's cavity and cured using UV light, so you won't lose any of the healthy part of the tooth.
3. Composite fillings are strong and fracture-resistant
Although it's true that amalgam fillings are a stronger material overall, composite fillings are actively bonded to the teeth, which will improve their strength and enhance their resistance to chips and fractures.
4. Composite fillings are durable
While composite fillings may become discoloured over time, they are extremely durable and can easily remain in place for upwards of 15 years.
If you're concerned about an existing filling or anything relating to your dental health, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us here at The Lodge by emailing contact@thelodgedentalsurgery.com or calling 01730 266 350.