Amalgam fillings

Amalgam Fillings

An amalgam filling is a type of dental restoration used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. It has been in use for over 150 years in hundreds of millions of patients around the world.

Composition

Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, hence the term 'amalgam' which refers to a blend of metals. The metals used in amalgam fillings typically include silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Mercury makes up about 50% of the compound and is used to bind the metals together and to provide a strong, hard, and durable filling.

Application

Amalgam fillings are applied in a soft state and then harden over time. The dentist prepares the tooth by removing the decay and shaping the cavity to hold the filling. The amalgam is then packed into the cavity and shaped to fit the tooth. Over time, the amalgam hardens and becomes a durable filling.

Advantages

Amalgam fillings are durable and long-lasting. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of fillings such as composite resin fillings or gold fillings. Amalgam fillings can withstand the forces of chewing and are therefore often used for restoring molars in the back of the mouth.

Disadvantages

Despite their advantages, amalgam fillings have been the subject of controversy due to concerns about the health effects of mercury. Although the American Dental Association and other health organizations have stated that the levels of mercury in amalgam fillings are safe, some people prefer to avoid them due to concerns about mercury exposure. Amalgam fillings are also more noticeable than tooth-colored fillings and may not be as aesthetically pleasing.

Alternatives

Alternatives to amalgam fillings include composite resin fillings, gold fillings, and porcelain fillings. These types of fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings but may be preferred for their aesthetic appeal.

See Also

• Dental restoration
• Tooth decay
• Composite resin
• Gold filling
• Porcelain filling