Amalgam Use in Dentistry
Dr. Jayme A. Oliveira Filho (Dr. O) was born in Brazil on 1976. He finished his dental school at Federal University of Ceara School of Dentistry in 1999. Dr. O practiced dentistry in Brazil for 5 years until, where he did his post-graduation in dental prosthetics. He moved with his family to the United States in 2003 to... more
Amalgam is a commonly used dental material that has been used for many years in restorative dentistry to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, fractures, or other issues. It's a mixture of metals, primarily consisting of mercury, silver, tin, and copper, which are mixed together to form a durable and malleable filling material. Here are some key points about the use of amalgam in dentistry:
- Durability: Amalgam fillings are known for their durability and longevity. They can withstand the forces of chewing and grinding over time, making them suitable for use in the back teeth (molars and premolars) where the most chewing occurs.
- Ease of Placement: Amalgam is relatively easy for dentists to place. It can be packed into a prepared tooth cavity while it's still soft and then hardens quickly, making it a convenient option for restoring teeth.
- Affordability: Amalgam is often more cost-effective compared to other dental filling materials like composite resin. This can make it a practical choice for individuals without extensive dental insurance coverage.
- Strength: Amalgam fillings provide strong and durable restorations that can resist wear and tear, making them suitable for teeth subjected to heavy biting forces.
- Sensitivity: Amalgam fillings may be less sensitive to moisture during placement compared to some other dental materials, making them a good choice for areas where it's challenging to keep the tooth dry.
- Controversy: The use of amalgam has been controversial due to concerns about the presence of mercury. While mercury is a component of amalgam, research has shown that the levels of mercury vapor released from properly placed amalgam fillings are generally considered safe and within acceptable limits. However, due to environmental concerns and patient preferences, some dental practices and regions have moved away from using amalgam in favor of alternative materials.
- Aesthetics: One of the main drawbacks of amalgam fillings is their appearance. They are silver in color, which can make them more noticeable in the mouth, especially when used in visible areas. This has led to the development and increased use of tooth-colored filling materials like composite resin.
- Alternative Materials: With advances in dental materials, tooth-colored composite resin fillings have become more popular due to their aesthetic appeal. These materials can be matched to the natural color of the tooth, making them less noticeable.
- Patient Choice: Many dentists now offer patients a choice between amalgam and tooth-colored fillings, taking into consideration aesthetic preferences, the location of the filling, and the patient's overall dental health.
It's important to discuss your options with your dentist to determine the best choice of dental filling material for your specific situation. Your dentist will consider factors such as the location of the filling, your oral health needs, and your preferences when recommending the most suitable material for your dental restoration.
