Deciding what type of filling material to use to fill your tooth can be confusing and frustrating. Not only is there many materials to choose from but many opinions about those materials (some scientifically based others not) that play into the decision. Silver fillings (also called amalgams) are a combination of different metals (copper, nickel, ect) mixed with mercury to allow the filling to be adapted and shaped within the cavity. After approximately 24hrs from placement the silver filling has hardened and can withstand chewing forces. Silver fillings have a lot of history behind them as they were the material of choice in dentistry for many years. Many dental offices still believe in them as an appropriate filling material and offer it to their patients. There is a concern that has been raised regarding the mercury contained within the material and it's potential health concerns. Regarding this issue I'd recommend that you discuss it with your dentist as well as do your own due diligence in researching the topic on the web. My only caution would be to make sure that the advise you seek is from a reputable peer reviewed source because as I stated before there are many opinions on the topic. The alternative material is "white" or "tooth colored" (also called composites or resins). These materials are a type of plastic that is bonded to the tooth and hardened by a light or a chemical reaction. These materials have evolved and improved greatly over the years to now be able to compete with amalgams in regards to stability and longevity.
There are advantages and disadvantages to each material and I'd recommend discussing it with your dentist to determine the best material for you.
Please feel free to call our office at (616) 284-3200 for a complimentary consult to discuss this or any other dental concern you may have!
