Who Needs Amalgam?

Traditionally, cavities are filled with silver amalgam fillings. But for years now, there has been a debate about whether the mercury content in amalgam fillings is harmful.

The Disadvantages of Amalgam Fillings

• Silver fillings are less attractive than tooth-colored composite resin fillings.
• Amalgam fillings expand and contract as temperature changes. The altered shape of the filling can allow bacteria to develop under the amalgam. In addition, expansion of a filling can eventually fracture your tooth, and a crown may be required to restore health and pain-free function.
• Silver fillings will eventually corrode and leak.

With the development of durable, tooth-colored restorative materials, silver amalgam fillings are often not the best choice for long-term dental health, functionality, and the appearance of your smile.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Composite resin fillings are not only durable and long lasting, but also attractive. Also, composite resin bonds to a tooth, nearly restoring its original strength and function. Dr. Allen will custom tint the resin to match your teeth, so your filling will look like natural tooth structure.

Here's another benefit: When placing an amalgam filling, healthy tooth structure must be removed just so the filling will stay in place. With composite fillings, only the decayed portion of the tooth must be removed, because the bond anchors the material tightly in place. This means that healthy tooth structure remains intact.

An Invitation for Your Family

At our dental office in Pella, Iowa, Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit.