Why you Should Replace Your Amalgams or Amalgam Fillings
Replacing amalgam fillings with white or composite fillings is becoming a common practice in dental clinics here in Sydney, New South Wales. People with amalgam fillings are at risk of cracked tooth syndrome and, if you have old amalgams, then it might be time to visit your local professional dental practitioner. Here at Northern Beaches Dental Practice in Frenchs Forest, we can replace our old dental fillings and amalgams with the filling material that is best for your mouth and your lifestyle. Fillings often last about 12 years when they are amalgams, however, teeth grinding and trauma to the mouth can mean they will need to be replaced in as little as five years.
What are Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings are made up of a mixture of metals, including silver, copper, tin, mercury and zinc. This is a very strong fillings material and has been used for over 150 years for dental cavities. Although mercury exposure can be toxic, amalgam is safe to use. The Australian Dental Association still supports the use of amalgam fillings however they do officially suggest minimising the use on pregnant women, children and those with kidney disease.
Why are Composite Fillings Better than Amalgams?
Composite fillings or composite resin is a white or tooth-coloured material that can match the colour of your tooth. This substance looks more natural than amalgam and, although they may not last as long as amalgam fillings for back adult teeth, they are the general go-to substance used in modern dental practices. Composite fillings are also preferred over amalgam fillings because amalgams can cause cracked tooth syndrome.
Cracked tooth syndrome occurs when a large silver amalgam filling acts as a wedge, cracking the tooth structure around the filling. The problem with old silver amalgam fillings is they don’t bond directly to the tooth and silver amalgam fillings are usually held in place by retention rather than bonding.
Ensure Regular Dental Check-ups
A filling is usually a simple, early treatment for tooth decay. Fillings may chip or crack over time, however, allowing food to become trapped between the tooth and the filling. This means that you will need to have the filling re-done to avoid a more painful and expensive procedure in the future, and to avoid infection. A dentist will usually check your fillings during a regular dental check-up, so make sure that you see your local dentist at least twice a year.
Visit Your Dentist to Redo Your Past Amalgam Fillings
Book online today at Northern Beaches Dental Practice in NSW for your regular dental check-up or to assess your amalgam fillings. Alternatively, you can call us now on 02 9190 6925.