Do you still have old metal fillings in your mouth from previous dental work? Metal fillings were the standard in restorative dentistry for many years, and they have all sorts of great benefits. In addition to being effective, they are also long-lasting and durable. However, they also have some downsides. Today, tooth-colored fillings have become the preferred option for restoring decayed teeth. Read on to learn why you might want to have your metal fillings replaced.
What Are the Disadvantages of Metal Fillings?
Many people still have metal fillings, as they are durable and can last a long time. However, here are some of their disadvantages.
- Contains Mercury: Metal fillings can be made from various metals. Some of them include silver, tin, copper, and mercury. The issue is that mercury is toxic to the human body. According to a study completed by the University of Georgia, if you have more than 8 metal fillings in your mouth, they could be increasing the mercury levels in your body. The good news is that there isn’t any evidence to suggest that the amount of mercury present in metal fillings is enough to cause any major issues, like mercury toxicity. However, many people prefer to avoid them to be safe.
- Reacts to Temperatures: Metal tends to expand and contract when exposed to different temperatures. When you have hot foods, metal fillings can expand, putting extra stress on your tooth. When you have something cold, the metal filling can shrink, resulting in gaps. Eventually, this takes a toll on the structure of the tooth.
- Not Natural-Looking: Metal fillings are easily visible to others. Most people don’t prefer the appearance of amalgam fillings in their teeth since they don’t look natural.
What Are the Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Today, dentists use tooth-colored fillings instead of the metal amalgam ones. Here are some of the benefits.
- Natural-Looking: Tooth-colored fillings easily blend in with your teeth. No one will be able to tell that you have one.
- Mercury-Free: Tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin, so there is no mercury.
- Preserves Tooth Structure: A smaller portion of your healthy tooth structure needs to be removed to place a tooth-colored filling. This is because they form a stronger bond to the tooth.
If you have concerns about your metal fillings or want a natural-looking alternative, schedule a visit with your dentist to discuss tooth-colored fillings. This way, you can benefit from a reliable restoration that blends in the rest of your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding earned his dental doctorate from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 1999. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He is proud to be a Spear-educated dentist and a member of the Spear Visiting Faculty. To learn more about tooth-colored fillings or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (402) 488-2325.