Summary
Amalgam, also known as silver fillings, has been used in dentistry for more than 150 years.
It is a trusted solution that helps restore decayed or damaged teeth and offers a strong, durable, and affordable way to bring back your natural smile. Many people, even after the advent and rise of newer options like tooth-colored composite fillings, still choose amalgam.
This is because of its exceptional longevity. In fact, studies show that amalgam fillings can last 10 to 15 years or even longer, often outlasting other materials. In this article, we will cover:
- Understanding Amalgam Fillings
- When You Might Need an Amalgam Filling
- Step-by-Step: The Amalgam Filling Procedure
Continue reading to learn more about the role of amalgam fillings in the following sections.
Understanding Amalgam Fillings
What is an Amalgam Filling?
Amalgam is known as one of the most durable and oldest types of dental fillings, used worldwide.
Amalgam is a blend of various metals, such as silver, mercury, copper, and tin. The mixture of these metals forms a strong, long-lasting material that helps patients restore teeth affected by decay.
Why Dentists Still Recommend It
Dentists often recommend amalgam fillings for teeth that experience heavy chewing pressure, such as molars. Their strength and ability to withstand daily wear make them a reliable choice for back teeth, where durability matters more than appearance.
Safety and Approval
It is important for all those looking for possible options for getting their filling done and considering amalgam as one of them, that there is nothing to worry about mercury in amalgam.
It is bound within the filling and not at all harmful. Major health authorities, including the FDA and the World Health Organisation, have approved amalgam fillings and considered them safe for use.
When Your Dentist Might Suggest It
Your dentist may recommend an amalgam filling if you need a strong, cost-effective, and long-lasting solution for cavities in hard-working teeth.
When You Might Need an Amalgam Filling
Tooth decay can happen to you at any time and is completely unexpected, but there are a few signs that might suggest that you need a filling. Those signs include:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Visible dark spots or holes on your tooth surface.
- Pain or discomfort while chewing.
It is best for you, and experts always suggest, that if you see any of these signs, visit your dentist immediately. During your appointment, the dentist will carefully examine your teeth and may take X-rays to assess the extent of decay. This helps the dentist to determine whether a filling is needed and how deep the cavity goes.
When choosing a filling material, factors such as the tooth’s location, budget, and durability requirements are considered. Amalgam fillings are often chosen for back teeth, where strength and longevity matter most.
Step-by-Step: The Amalgam Filling Procedure
You can easily restore the strength and function of a decayed tooth with an amalgam filling, which is a straightforward and safe procedure. Here is a simple breakdown of how a dentist in Huntingburg, Indiana, performs the procedure from start to finish.
a. Preparation and Anesthesia
Before starting, your dentist ensures you feel completely comfortable.
- A local anesthetic is gently administered to numb the affected area so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Once the tooth and surrounding area are numb, the dentist isolates the tooth using cotton rolls or a small dental dam.
- This step keeps the area clean and dry, ensuring the filling material bonds properly.
b. Removing the Decay
The dentist then carefully removes the decayed or damaged parts of your tooth.
- Only the affected part of the tooth is cleaned out using a precise dental instrument.
- To preserve your healthy enamel as much as possible, the dentist takes extra care.
- This step ensures that the cavity is free of bacteria and ready for a long-lasting filling.
c. Placing the Amalgam Filling
Once the tooth is fully cleaned, it’s time to fill the space.
- The dentist mixes the amalgam, a durable blend of metals known for its strength and longevity.
- The soft amalgam is then packed carefully into the cavity.
- It’s shaped and contoured to match the natural form of your tooth, ensuring your bite feels normal and comfortable.
d. Finishing and Polishing
The filling is then refined for a smooth, natural finish.
- The dentist checks your bite and adjusts the filling as needed to ensure your comfort.
- To prevent any irritation and plaque buildup, the surface is polished to make it smooth and shiny.
- Amalgam offers immediate protection and lasting durability, as it hardens faster than any other filling option.
Aftercare and Recovery Tips
After getting an amalgam filling, taking care of your teeth helps to ensure a long-lasting result and comfort. Here are a few simple yet effective aftercare tips to follow:
1. Be Gentle After the Procedure
For at least a few hours, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the filling is. It helps to prevent any discomfort or accidental pressure on the new restoration and gives the filling time to set properly.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Continue brushing and flossing regularly, but do so gently around the treated area. Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent further decay and supports overall dental health.
3. Manage Sensitivity
You might experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold food for a few days; there is nothing to worry about, as it is very common. Let your dentist know immediately if the discomfort persists, and they will make any necessary minor adjustments.
4. Schedule Follow-Up Visits
A follow-up appointment allows your dentist to check bite alignment and ensure the filling remains intact.
Comparing Amalgam with Other Filling Options
Patients often wonder which material to choose for a dental filling: amalgam, ceramic, or composite. Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses.
1. Durability and Strength
Amalgam fillings are known for their exceptional strength and longevity, making them an excellent choice for back teeth that handle heavy chewing. Composite and ceramic fillings, while durable, may not last as long under constant pressure.
2. Appearance and Aesthetics
Composite and ceramic fillings offer a more aesthetic, seamless look that blends beautifully with your natural tooth color. On the other hand, amalgam has a metallic appearance, which can be more noticeable if compared.
Takeaway
- Amalgam fillings remain a strong, durable, and cost-effective option, ideal for restoring teeth that handle heavy chewing.
- The procedure is simple, safe, and quick, involving decay removal, filling placement, and polishing for a comfortable, lasting result.
- With proper aftercare and regular dental visits, amalgam fillings can last well over a decade, ensuring lasting protection and function.
- Ready to change the way you smile? Connect with our experts at Hoosier Family Dentistry today!