According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 90% of adults have had at least one cavity. Additionally, one in four adults currently have one or more untreated cavities. Though silver (amalgam) fillings used to be the only way to repair these damaged teeth, researchers have discovered that they can have dangerous effects on your overall health. Read on to learn why you should replace metal fillings in Dallas and why tooth-colored ones are the ideal alternative.
What Are Dental Fillings Made From?
Amalgam fillings are made from a combination of metals like silver, copper, and tin. They are used to fill in damaged areas of a tooth because of decay and can withstand the pressure that comes with biting and chewing food. Modern dental fillings are made of composite resin, which contains dental-grade plastic, glass, and ceramic particles. Both options are reliable and a great way to restore the strength and function of damaged teeth, but dental and health experts still recommend composite fillings over silver ones.
Disadvantages of Metal Fillings
There are several drawbacks to having metal fillings. A few of the most noteworthy ones include:
- Tooth sensitivity and enamel damage –Amalgam fillings don’t adhere to teeth very well. They also expand and contract more than modern tooth-colored fillings and when exposed to very hot or cold temperatures. This can cause tooth sensitivity and microfractures in the tooth enamel, which will weaken the teeth over time.
- Highly noticeable –Since amalgam fillings are made from shiny metal, they are very noticeable and can make you feel self-conscious about your smile.
- Mercury content -The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that amalgam fillings are safe. Even so, some studies have found that those who have eight or more metal fillings may experience a significant increase in the mercury levels in their blood. Mercury is toxic to humans and can cause neurological issues, skin rashes, and a host of other problems.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Thankfully, tooth-colored composite fillings offer several advantages over metal ones, including:
- Lessen tooth sensitivity – Since tooth-colored fillings are metal-free, they’re the best choice for patients who have metal allergies or sensitivities. They also won’t expand and contract with temperature changes.
- Seamless integration –Composite resin is color-matched to your natural teeth. This makes them indistinguishable from the rest of your smile.
- Seal out bacteria –When a tooth-colored fillings is placed, this forms a tight seal with the enamel, which effectively prevents harmful oral bacteria from entering the tooth.
- Enamel preservation –Composite fillings are pliable and form a chemical bond with the surrounding enamel, which helps strengthen the teeth and provides a secure hold for the filling. Additionally, little to no healthy enamel is removed to place tooth-colored fillings.
If you have silver fillings, ask your dentist about replacing them with composite ones. Not only will this lessen your chances of getting mercury poisoning, but it will also make your smile look as healthy and beautiful as ever!
About the Author
Do you have metal fillings that need replacing? Dr. Bobby Shirley, Dr. Clay Cannon, Dr. Jack Bickford, and the rest of their Dallas team at Distinctive Dentistry can help. They are experts on all things oral health and offer composite dental fillings to lessen your chances of developing mercury-related complications and improve your confidence in your smile. Visit Distinctive Dentistry’s website or call their office at (770) 445-6606 for more information on composite fillings or to schedule an appointment.
