We talked about a composite filling last time, so let’s discuss another option for fillings, amalgam. The more common term for amalgam fillings are known as the “silver teeth”. Most dental offices no longer provide amalgam fillings as an option due to the material that it was made from, such as a mixture of mercury, silver, copper, tin, and zinc.

 Amalgam fillings tend to be the more cost effective way to treat cavities but due to the material it can cause a slightly higher mercy level in your blood or urine, but usually remain at a level considered safe. 

Studies on people with dental amalgam do not show conclusive evidence that causes harmful health effects in the general population, however small amounts of mercury in the form of a vapor (gas) may be released and can be harmful in certain patients. 

People who should be concerned about the effects of amalgam would be women who are pregnant or plan to be, nursing mothers, children under the age of 6, people with neurological impairment/kidney dysfunction, or sensitive to mercury or other components in the material of the amalgam. 

Composite fillings are more known and widely used today in replacement of amalgam. If you currently have any dental amalgam, you can always consider and ask your dentist if it is necessary to replace it, but if there is no decay underneath it can be discouraged to be removed. Removal when not needed can cause loss of healthy tooth structure or possibly releasing more mercury gas. 

Be sure to always consult with your dentist and discuss all your treatment plan options before deciding what is the best route for you. The explanation of the procedures, materials used, and your health history can really have a big impact for your dental hygiene future.