What Is An Amalgam Filling?

There are many different types of filling materials that a dentist will use when they are restoring your teeth. One of the most well-known is called amalgam filling. It is a mixture of different types of metals, including silver, tin, copper and most notoriously, liquid metal Mercury. You may also find trace amounts of metals like zinc, and many of these materials for use in ancient China. In modern times, the use of an amalgam has been a prime choice for most dentists for filling teeth because it is easy to use and extremely durable. However, due to the use of mercury, and its effects on the environment, other types of filling materials are now being used. This will include composite white materials which have a low environmental impact, and are certainly absent the toxicity often associated with the use of mercury during dental procedures.  The following information will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of metallic amalgam filling materials.

The Toxicity Of Mercury

Mercury is a chemical element with symbol Hg and atomic number 80. For many decades, it was referred to as simply quicksilver. The reason that Mercury is so dangerous is that Mercury is the only metal that is liquid at standard temperature and pressure: in fact, there is no other metal that can remain liquid in a wider range of conditions. This is mostly due to the abnormal behavior of the electrons orbiting the atom and makes it one, of the only 5 elements, to be liquid in a normal state.

But the real dangerous property of mercury is its density. Mercury is 13.5 times denser than water. It’s liquid and gas forms are highly poisonous. When inhaled or ingested, Mercury can accumulate in the body, slowly degrading the membranes of important organs like the brain, nervous system, kidneys or liver. It can cause varying effects from eye irritation and vomiting to DNA and chromosomal damage. Mercury can be found naturally in the environment, present around the world as “Cinnabar”. Although it has always been released into the environment through normal weathering, the recent rise in its quantity on the globe has many people worried. Because it is not naturally found in food, there is a worry that we could be ingesting dangerous amounts of it simply as a result of the natural food chain, fish being the main concern. So is it safe to use Mercury as part of the amalgam used to restore your teeth?

Is A Mercury Amalgam Safe To Use?

In many cases will be safe for most people, yet it should not be used by expectant mothers. Children under the age of six, and those with allergies to certain levels of metal toxicity, should avoid this altogether. If you have a history of kidney problems in your family, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to mercury, silver, copper or tin, you should opt for the different types of filling material that do not use any of these metals at all. It is also well-known that this material will extend the contract depending upon the temperature within your mouth. It can also lead to bacteria developing, leading to tooth decay and stress on the walls of your teeth. There are so many reasons to opt for other fillers that your dentist will likely recommend. Although more expensive, they are much safer and will likely last longer a Mercury-based amalgam.

One other reason to consider other types of filler materials is that it’s much easier to match the color of your teeth using materials such as ceramic. There are also other options, including the use of gold, plastic, and standard resin fillings. Your dentist will be able to help you make the right decision based upon your budget and what would be the best choice for your current health condition.

If you need more information about amalgam filling material, you can contact Dr. Sawyer today. Perhaps it is time to fix a tooth that needs to have a filling. You can easily set an appointment by calling them at your earliest convenience. 1-530-283-2811