Should You Replace Your Metal Fillings?
Are Metal Fillings Safe?
When you have a cavity, the dentist drills away the decayed portion of the tooth, or cavity, and fills the hole with a metal filling. Metal fillings, also known as amalgams, are made of a malleable metal compound consisting of an assortment of metals such as copper, tin, silver and mercury. Due to the mercury content, women who are breastfeeding or pregnant are advised to avoid getting these types of fillings due to danger to the new or unborn child. On the other hand, some people decide to make the choice to not get them all together, or replace the amalgam fillings they already have with a healthier and more aesthetic option. Luckily there are other methods to choose from when filling a cavity.
How Long Do Silver Amalgam Fillings Last?
The benefit of amalgam fillings is that they are both durable and affordable. Unless there are other underlying conditions such as grinding or clenched teeth, amalgams can last 10 to 15 years. However, since amalgams are affected by temperature, teeth sensitivities can be an issue. While eating cold and hot foods, the metal can contract or expand causing pressure on the tooth and cause tiny cracks that gradually get worse, further weakening the tooth over time.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
- Composite fillings are a made from a composite resin that is matched to the patient’s own tooth color at the time of the procedure. So they are virtually invisible.
- Due to the fact that some patients may have metal allergies, composite fillings make an excellent choice because they contain no metal.
- Composite fillings actually bond to the tooth making the tooth stronger and they are not temperature sensitive.
Is it time to replace your metal fillings? Call us today at (210) 877-2273to set up an appointment with Wurzbach Parkway Family Dental right away. We can replace those dark metal fillings with a more aesthetic option that you will absolutely love!
