3 Common Questions About Amalgam Fillings

Dental amalgam is a material commonly used to aid in the feeling of cavities — dental fillings which are constructed using amalgam can also be known as silver fillings. Over recent years, however, people have raised concerns regarding the use of these fillings because it contains Mercury. Today we will look at three of the most common questions when it comes to silver amalgam fillings and their safety in the use of filling cavities.

What exactly is amalgam?

In recent years, a tooth-colored material can now be used to help in restoring teeth. Therefore, the typical silver filling using amalgam is being used less and less often.

Is amalgam safe to use in dental fillings?

It should be noted that millions of people now have amalgam fillings in their mouth. However, some people have raised the concern that there is Mercury contained in amalgam. On the contrary, there have been many studies conducted in regards to the safety of this material. They all have evaluated and concluded that it is safe for the use of dental fillings.

Some groups have requested that the FDA reconsider and reevaluate the safety, but as of now, it is considered extremely safe in the use of fillings.

Why is mercury in amalgam fillings anyways?

Mercury is used in the material because it is pliable and helps in the placement of the sealing in the cavity. All of the elements are mixed, and the mixture is pressed onto the tooth, then the cavity is filled.

Why is there so much concern over Mercury in amalgam fillings?

It should be noted that Mercury is a metal that occurs naturally in our environment. It can exist as a liquid, which is commonly used in thermometers. However, when it is heated, it becomes a gas. It can be combined with many other materials of different industries.

Most people do not realize it, but everyone is exposed to Mercury even when are out and about, and even when coming into contact with soil and food. One example of this is, the current concern over the amount of Mercury building up in fish is due to pollution in water.

Just like with almost all substances, harm typically comes depending on the amount of the substance and not necessarily just trace amounts such as in dental fillings. And depending on a person’s career and industry, they may be in contact with Mercury almost every single day.

Do you have more questions about amalgam fillings and mercury?

If you have any additional questions in regards to fillings and mercury, feel free to give our office a call. We will be glad to help and answering any further questions as well as health.one of the best ways that you can learn about the different types of fillings, is by visiting our office. Contact us today!

Request an appointment here: https://www.northside-dentalcare.com or call Northside Dental Care, PC at (978) 206-7077 for an appointment in our Peabody office.