For decades, amalgam fillings have been the standard material used to fill cavities and repair damaged teeth. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the safety and effectiveness of amalgam fillings. As a result, many patients are turning to composite fillings as a safer and more effective alternative. Our experienced dentist in San Jose and team are dedicated to providing our patients with the latest and most advanced dental treatments, including composite fillings.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of replacing amalgam fillings with composite fillings.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are a type of dental restoration used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, or fractures. Made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles, composite fillings are bonded to the tooth using a special light, creating a strong and durable seal.
Unlike amalgam fillings, which are silver in color and contain mercury, composite fillings are tooth-colored and mercury-free, making them a popular choice for patients who want a more natural-looking and safer restoration.
What Are The Benefits of Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings have several benefits over amalgam fillings, including:
- Aesthetics: Composite fillings are tooth-colored, making them virtually invisible in the mouth. This is especially important for teeth that are visible when smiling or speaking.
- Safety: Composite fillings do not contain mercury, a toxic substance found in amalgam fillings. This makes them a safer choice for patients who are concerned about the potential health risks of mercury exposure.
- Durability: Composite fillings are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care. They are also less likely to crack or break than amalgam fillings.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Composite fillings require less tooth structure to be removed than amalgam fillings, making them a more conservative option.
- Versatility: Composite fillings can be used to repair a wide range of tooth damage, from small cavities to large fractures.
What Are The Health Concerns Associated with Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings have been used for decades, but in recent years, concerns have been raised about their safety. The main concern is the presence of mercury, a toxic substance that can cause a range of health problems. Some of the health concerns associated with amalgam fillings include:
- Mercury Poisoning: Mercury is a toxic substance that can cause a range of health problems, including neurological damage, kidney damage, and birth defects.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to the mercury in amalgam fillings, which can cause a range of symptoms, including skin rashes, itching, and swelling.
- Neurological Problems: Mercury has been linked to a range of neurological problems, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
What is The Process of Replacing Amalgam Fillings with Composite Fillings?
Replacing amalgam fillings with composite fillings is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps involved:
- Removal of the Amalgam Filling: The dentist will use a special drill to remove the amalgam filling.
- Preparation of the Tooth: The dentist will prepare the tooth for the composite filling by cleaning and shaping it.
- Application of the Composite Filling: The dentist will apply the composite filling material to the tooth, shaping it to match the natural contours of the tooth.
- Bonding of the Composite Filling: The dentist will use a special light to bond the composite filling to the tooth.
- Finishing Touches: The dentist will finish and polish the composite filling to create a natural-looking feeling of restoration.
Replacing amalgam fillings with composite fillings is a safe and effective way to restore damaged teeth. Composite fillings offer several benefits over amalgam fillings, including aesthetics, safety, durability, preservation of tooth structure, and versatility. If you are concerned about the health risks associated with amalgam fillings or simply want a more natural-looking and feeling restoration, talk to your dentist about replacing your amalgam fillings with composite fillings.
