Should I Get My Metal Fillings Replaced?

In the past, metal, also known as Amalgam, fillings were your only option. Even though it is a strong restorative material and last for many years, a lot of people are opting to have theirs replaced with tooth-colored fillings. There are plenty of reasons why dentists and patients are making the switch. Continue reading to learn more from your metal-free dentist about why replacing your fillings isn’t such a bad idea.

What Are the Cons of Amalgam Fillings?

Metal fillings were used for many years and many people still have them in their mouth today. Here are a few reasons why they aren’t the most ideal option when it comes to tooth restoration:

• They contain mercury: Amalgam fillings are made up of silver, tin, copper, mercury, and other metals. The problem is that mercury is toxic to the human body. Ingesting high levels can cause something called “mercury toxicity” which has dangerous symptoms like impaired senses and lack of coordination. It can even be lethal at very high doses. Fortunately, there is no concrete evidence that the amount of mercury in fillings causes major issues, but many feel that it is best to avoid them entirely.

• Metal fillings react to temperature changes: Metal expands and contracts when it is exposed to changes in temperature. When you drink something hot, it will expand and put extra strain on your tooth. When you consume something cold, it will shrink and can cause gaps. Over time, it can weaken your natural tooth.

• Amalgam fillings don’t match your teeth: Something that a lot of people don’t like about their metal fillings is that they are far from invisible. Switching to a tooth-colored filling fixes this aesthetic issue.

• They don’t last longer than tooth-colored fillings: Like most dental restorations, Amalgam fillings don’t last forever. Over time, they will start to wear away and leave your teeth vulnerable to bacteria that can cause tooth decay.

What Are the Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Today, most dentists prefer the use of tooth-colored fillings when repairing tooth decay. Here are a few reasons why:

• They are aesthetically appealing: Tooth-colored fillings blend in with your surrounding tooth. No one will be able to tell that you have one whether you are talking, laughing, or smiling. All they will see is your consistently white teeth.

• They contain no mercury: Instead of mercury and other metals, they are made from a composite resin.

• They leave more healthy tooth structure: Tooth-colored fillings don’t require the removal of any healthy dental structure. It also forms a much stronger bond to the tooth than is possible with Amalgam fillings.

When the time comes where you want to replace your metal fillings, tooth-colored ones are a great option and they will last for many years to come.

About the Author

Dr. DawnMarie DiGrazia offers a wide array of services to her patients in Somerville, NJ. She earned her D.M.D. from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the New Jersey Dental Association. Dr. DiGrazia provides tooth-colored fillings to help restore her patients’ smiles. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (908) 722-2999.