One of the largest and most ongoing controversies in dental medicine is the debate around amalgam fillings and mercury content. This debate arises from the fact that the toxicity of mercury is a universally accepted, but no indisputable data or evidence exists regarding the effects of exposure to mercury on a person with amalgam fillings. Mercury amount estimates range from miniscule to large amounts and are blamed for everything from autoimmune disorders to mental instability. Until documented studies are conducted they remain a popular choice among Bellbrook and Kettering dentists and dental patients. No international health body or individual dentist has to date found any cause for alarm regarding the wellbeing of patients who have had their cavities treated with amalgam fillings.
They are popular restorations because they are easy to apply, they resist wear and tear (even when in the heavy working molars) and they’re relatively inexpensive materials. Today, though, composite fillings are available without the mercury content and provide a more aesthetic and just as reliable restoration.
Other shortcomings of using amalgam fillings are the larger amount of tooth material that has to be drilled out to correctly fit them in, and the attention they draw to a patient’s teeth because of their dark grey color. Many people with amalgam fillings complain of increased sensitivity when they have this type of filling placed, but most state that this diminishes and disappears after a few days.Teeth receiving amalgam fillings require preparation with dental adhesives and resins, and then sealing with special lighting device. Because amalgams are much less complicated, their ease of application and durability makes them more appealing to patients who do not like to spend time in the dentist’s chair. Most patients find out that they need a filling only when they go in for a regular dental examination or when they are brought into the dental office for evaluation of a toothache.
If expenses are a problem, patients should go with amalgam fillings, but if looks are of greater importance, then composite fillings which closely resemble natural teeth are a much better alternative. Additionally, the dentist will evaluate the bite habits of the patient for a heavy or hard bite and/or teeth grinding, and may recommend an amalgam over a composite filling.
Another important factor in making a decision about which type of filling to have is that dental insurance providers do not offer a full coverage on the more costly composite fillings whereas the less expensive amalgam fillings are given coverage.
The patient and their Bellbrook or Kettering dentist must discuss and decide on the wisest choice according to a patient’s needs and budget.