Give Us a Call
+1 (647) 503 - 4224
Where are Amalgam Fillings used?
Many dental situations call for the use of amalgam fillings. Your dentist can opt for amalgam fillings when:
You have a large hollow cavity that requires filling
Your molars and premolars have a hole. The teeth at the back of the mouth must be filled with more amalgam because a lot of pressure is exerted on them during chewing. Amalgam fillings withstand the pressure thus reducing pain
You have a hollow cavity beneath the gum lining. At this position, amalgam fillings must be used to keep the hole dry.
What dental cleaning involves
Regular brushing and flossing help clean plaque from the teeth. This will, however, not remove tartar. This is why you need professional dental cleaning. The dentist uses special tools to get rid of tartar. The process is called scaling. The teeth may be polished after scaling. Gritty paste can also be used to remove stains from the surface of your teeth. Flossing is the final step meant to ensure areas between the teeth are clean. Dental prophylaxis (dental cleanings) are done by a registered dental hygienist.
Benefits of using Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings form an essential part of dental medication because of many reasons. Here are some of their benefits:
- Affordable: Compared to other fillings made of gold and silver, or tooth-colored composites, amalgam fillings are the most affordable in the dental market.
- Durable: Amalgam fillings can last longer than other types of fillings.
- Hardens easily: Since they can harden easily amalgam fillings can be put on any part of the teeth including the regions below the lower teeth. The gum line easily waters and amalgam fillings can be used to fill cavities within the lower gum lining.
Disadvantages of using Amalgam Fillings
Nearly all medical procedures have benefits and disadvantage, and amalgam fillings are no exception. The following are some of the disadvantages of using amalgam fillings:
- Compared to other types of fillings, amalgam fillings occupy a lot of space within the tooth. The dentist is forced to remove a significant portion of the natural tissues within the tooth to replace them with the fillings.
- It is easier to notice a patient with the amalgam fillings when they eat, laugh, or talk because of their silver coloring. Amalgam fillings do not march with the rest of the mouth. When placed on the incisors, or close to the front mouth, they spoil your smile.
Safety precautions when using amalgam fillings
- Amalgam fillings are a compound of various metals including mercury. Mercury can be poisonous to the body under high concentration. However, the presence of other minerals in the fillings neutralizes mercury making it less toxic. An amalgam filling is safe for use in dental work and patients should not fear using it.
- The World Health Organization (WHO), U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the American Dental Association are some of the statutory bodies that have certified and approved the use of amalgam fillings in the dental industry. No research has proved the use of amalgam fillings as being unsafe for the human body.
Empress Walk Dental is a full-service dental clinic offering services near North York Centre and we are looking forward to being the first choice for you and your family’s dental care!
Make Your Appointment
