Dental amalgams - are silver fillings that are produced by the combination of mercury with other alloys of silver, tin, and copper. The mercury is utilized because it is the only element that can bind these metals together, producing a filling that can be conveniently handled into a tooth cavity. The outcome is a strong, hard, and tough filling. About 45-50% of the amalgam is Mercury.

Mercury’s toxic nature often rouses the concern of patients, but when mercury is combined with the other components in dental amalgams; its toxic nature is neutralized and is then rendered innocuous.

Logically, there should be more cases of neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis for Dental staff since Dental staff is constantly exposed to mercury in the dental amalgams. Mercury spills are significantly minimized due to the packaging of dental amalgams in pre-mixed capsules. The more recent dental amalgams also contain less mercury than before. In fact, we are exposed to higher levels of mercury in the air, water, and food than from a mouthful of amalgam.

Although there are incidences of allergy to mercury, it is very minute and accounts for less than a percent of the population. These people who may have allergic reactions should receive tests from licensed physicians. This is necessary so that appropriate alternatives could be discussed and determined, if indeed mercury in the amalgam is detrimental for their health.

There are other alternatives for dental amalgams such as cast gold restorations, porcelain, and composite resins. Although composite resins are preferred for its esthetic appeal, these types of fillings require a considerably longer period of time to place the restoration. This is also the case with gold and porcelain restorations which may require two appointments. Dental amalgam is also more durable than these alternatives, with the exception of gold, and also costs cheaper. The procedure using dental amalgam can also be placed in the tooth cavity faster than its alternatives.

DR. JOHN CHAVES
5312 Comercio Lane, Suite A
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Phone 818-999-2707
Fax 818-703-1998
appointment@cosmeticdentalservices.com