When you were a child and your dentist said that you needed a filling, chances were that a dental amalgam was used. Amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals, such as tin, copper, silver, and mercury. These were the silver colored fillings that the dentist applied to a child’s and adult’s teeth. In this blog post, we will give some of the pros and cons of dental amalgam fillings and whether or not to replace them.

Amalgam introduction:

Dental amalgam restorations also known as silver mercury fillings have been a standard restorative filling for premolars and molars since the early 1800s. This option replaced the gold foil options since it was more cost effective and allows a patient to keep the tooth. Keeping teeth is essential to improving a patient’s quality of life.

Amalgam advantages:

  • Durable Material: These fillings are made with components that make it extremely durable. They can withstand wear and tear and can last approximately ten to twelve years or even longer before requiring replacement.
  • Affordable: As mentioned before, this option became an option due to the affordability starting back in the 1800s. This is one of the main reasons patients and dentists chose this option.
  • Eat most foods: Due to amalgam fillings being so durable, patients can easily eat most foods without worrying about the filling breaking.
  • Future cavities protection: Amalgam fillings make the edges of the tooth next to the cavity more resistant to future cavities.

Amalgam disadvantages:

There are many advantages to this filling type however, it is important to explain some of the disadvantages which have to do with the material used. For example; the fillings can get darker over time, can cause increased tooth sensitivity and the tooth with the filling can become weaker and crack. There is also a lot of controversy over whether the filling is safe or not.

Removal or not:

Before you make any decisions on removing your amalgam filling it is essential to speak with Dr. Abrams. If your filling and tooth are in good condition and there is no tooth decay, Dr. Abrams might not recommend removing the filling. Having the filling removed can cause the loss of healthy tooth structure, especially if the amalgam filling is intact. If you would prefer to have the filling removed, however, have a conversation with Dr. Abrams to discuss the need for removal and procedure.

If you would like to have your amalgam fillings removed or if there is a need to have them removed, such as decay, fractured tooth structure and/or fracture lines that have formed surrounding the filling, we can do that safely. We utilize proper armamentarium including oxygen, a rubber dam for isolation, an amalgam suction and a vacuum for capturing the particles and protecting the patient during the removal of the amalgam.

If you have amalgam fillings, but are unsure if you should have them removed, call Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry for an appointment with Dr. Abrams. Dr. Abrams will have a consultation with you to discuss the different options available. In order to make an appointment, visit our website and fill out our contact form or call us at (615) 595-6111.

September is Gum Care Month

September 12, 2024

September is Gum Care Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance...

Read More

Enjoy Affordable and Accessible Dental Care with Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry’s Membership Plans

August 15, 2024

Enjoy Affordable and Accessible Dental Care with Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry's Membership...

Read More

Back-to-School Smiles: Maintaining Dental Health Throughout the School Year

August 1, 2024

Back-to-School Smiles: Maintaining Dental Health Throughout the School Year.

Read More

Introducing Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry’s New Membership Plans

July 18, 2024

We have exciting news to share with our valued patients at Downtown...

Read More

Why Patients Should Choose SureSmile® Clear Aligners

June 25, 2024

Choosing SureSmile Clear Aligners is an investment in your long-term oral health...

Read More

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Implant

June 14, 2024

Dental implants are a state-of-the-art solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring...

Read More

Radiography Made Safer: How We’re Protecting Your Health During Dental Visits

May 22, 2024

At Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry, your safety and well-being are paramount in...

Read More

The Importance of Regular Professional Teeth Cleaning: How Often Should You Go?

May 14, 2024

Maintaining good oral hygiene goes beyond just brushing and flossing at home....

Read More

Unlock the Fountain of Youth for Your Smile: Tips to Prevent Aging Teeth

April 25, 2024

As we age, we often focus on maintaining our youthful appearance, but...

Read More

What You Need to Know About Oral Cancer

April 4, 2024

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting a...

Read More

What to Expect When You’re Expecting a Crown or Filling

March 21, 2024

At Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry, we understand dental procedures can sometimes feel...

Read More

Your Guide to Unveiling the Beauty of Dental Veneers

February 22, 2024

Have you ever admired someone’s flawless smile and wondered how they achieved...

Read More

Say Goodbye to Sensitivity: Effective Solutions for Sensitive Teeth

February 19, 2024

Are you tired of wincing in pain every time you indulge in...

Read More

Understanding Gum Disease & How to Prevent Periodontal Problems

February 5, 2024

Gum disease, also known as gingivitis and periodontal disease, is a condition...

Read More

Primescan Technology Gives Our Patients the Best Dental Care

January 25, 2024

Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry is proud to introduce the latest addition to...

Read More