In today’s article, we discuss fillings.
What is a composite filling?
Composite fillings are fabricated with a mixture of glass or quartz and resin which results in a natural tooth-colored material. They are quite strong when bonded to the tooth with adhesive.
What is an amalgam filling?
Amalgam fillings are also called “silver fillings” though they aren’t 100% silver. Dental amalgam is about 50% mercury with some silver, tin and copper. Mercury creates a durable compound with the other metals. This type of filling has been used to fill cavities in teeth since 1895.
Are amalgam fillings dangerous?
Some people claim that mercury fillings are linked to chronic disease. In fact, some dentists (known as “holistic” or “mercury free”) have established practices around replacing amalgam fillings with composite fillings. However, many respected medical and scientific associations have long asserted that amalgam fillings are safe. This includes the American Dental Association, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Mayo Clinic, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
This is from the International Journal of Dentistry:
1) Mercury released from dental amalgam restorations does not contribute to systemic disease or systemic toxicological effects
2) Allergic reactions to mercury from dental amalgam restorations have been demonstrated, but these are extremely rare
3) Available scientific data do not justify the discontinuation of dental amalgam use from clinical practice or the replacement with other single-tooth restorative dental materials
(Source: Uçar Y, Brantley WA. Section 5. Conclusions: Biocompatibility of Dental Amalgams. Int J Dent 2011;2011:981595. doi:10.1155/2011/981595. Accessed April 5, 2016.)
Do you have a youngster with amalgam fillings and are anxious about safety? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson to discuss your concerns.
Is a composite filling the same as a white filling?
Yes, informally. The term “white filling” has become a descriptive term. Composite fillings are made to be indistinguishable from the patient’s tooth color. Compared to amalgam fillings–which don’t match the color of teeth–they are whitish, white with a slight yellow tint, or white with a slight gray tint depending on the color of the tooth.
What’s the difference between composite fillings and amalgam fillings?
As discussed previously, these fillings are constructed with different materials. Composite fillings have the advantage of blending seamlessly with the tooth. In some situations–such as a large cavity in a molar–an amalgam filling may be considered. Keep in mind that a composite filling has proved to be a strong and stable restoration.
Are amalgam fillings still used?
Despite the popularity of tooth-colored fillings, some Jefferson City dentists still find amalgam fillings best for some situations. Unfortunately some dental insurance providers and state medicaid plans don’t cover composite fillings.
Do you have more questions about fillings?
Call Jefferson City Dental Care at the number below!
Contact Jefferson City Dental Care:
573-634-2400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3551 Amazonas Dr
Jefferson City, Missouri
65109
