Did you know that traditional silver fillings, called amalgam fillings, are made up of approximately 50 percent mercury? This concerns many people because they feel that having mercury in their mouth may pose serious health concerns.
Dr. Collins is a mercury-free dentist that hasn’t used amalgam in many years. Instead, we offer white composite fillings. Technology has evolved since the standard use of amalgam. This newer composite material can be bonded directly to the tooth and is strong enough to hold up on back teeth.
Advantages of Mercury-free Fillings
When it comes to white composite versus amalgam fillings, there are many advantages. When composite is bonded to the tooth it actually structurally reinforces the tooth. This means that your tooth is stronger and in turn more resistant to fracture. Whereas amalgam tends to weaken the overall tooth structure.
Shown below is a photograph of traditional amalgam fillings on the left, compared to white composite fillings on the right. The composite fillings look much nicer and blend in beautifully with the surrounding teeth.
Another benefit of composite is that amalgam fillings can corrode and crack over time. When this happens, they are at risk for leaking harmful substances into your mouth and into your body.
When composite fillings are placed they actually require less drilling by the dentist. Amalgam requires a certain thickness of your healthy tooth to be drilled away after the cavity is removed so it is strong enough to hold up to everyday use. With the bonding technology for the placement of composite fillings, less of your natural tooth is sacrificed.
There is also less post-operative sensitivity with white fillings. Patients with amalgam have complained of a sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This is due to the fact that metal is a natural conductor.
If you are interested in mercury-free fillings, please give us a call at 225-292-4321 to schedule an appointment.