Amalgam Fillings in San Luis Obispo, CA

Repair Your Cavities With Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, have been a popular choice for dental restorations for over a century. They’re a durable and cost-effective option for repairing cavities and restoring damaged teeth. While dental amalgam fillings aren’t used as widely with the advancement of technology and treatments, many patients may still have them.

Our San Luis Obispo, CA, dentist, Dr. Ramirez, breaks down amalgam fillings below. If you need to schedule an appointment with our team, call us today at (805) 549-8483. While we don’t offer amalgam fillings, we do offer composite dental fillings at our Central Coast, CA, dental practice.

What Are Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam fillings are restorations used to repair cavities, tooth decay, and damaged teeth. They consist of a mixture of metals, primarily mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This mixture forms a strong and durable filling material that can withstand the rigors of chewing and lasts for many years.

• Composition of Dental Amalgam Fillings
• Mercury (approximately 50%)
• Silver (approximately 22 to 32%)
• Tin (approximately 14%)
• Copper (approximately 8 to 12%)
• Trace amounts of other metals

Amalgam Filling Benefits

There are various benefits to dental amalgam restorations, including:

• Durability: Amalgam fillings are exceptionally durable and can withstand chewing forces for many years, making them a long-lasting option.
• Cost-Effectiveness: They’re often more affordable than alternative dental restorations, making them accessible to a wide range of patients.
• Strength and Load-Bearing Capacity: Amalgam fillings are strong and can bear heavy chewing loads, making them suitable for molars and teeth subjected to significant pressure.
• Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, amalgam fillings can last for decades, providing reliable tooth restoration.
• Ease of Placement: Dentists find it relatively easy to place amalgam fillings, and the procedure is generally quicker than some alternatives.

Amalgam Filling Disadvantages

Just like other dental treatments, there are certain disadvantages associated with an amalgam restoration, such as:

• Aesthetic Concerns: One of the primary drawbacks of amalgam fillings is their silver color, which is conspicuous in the mouth and may be considered unattractive.
• Expansion and Contraction: Amalgam fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to tooth fractures or leakage over time.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have allergic reactions or sensitivities to the metals used in amalgam fillings, although such cases are rare.
• Environmental Concerns: Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.

Placing Amalgam Fillings

Preparation of the Tooth

Your SLO dentist will use a drill with a small, spinning head (called a bur) to remove the decayed or damaged area of your tooth. To create a clean and dry workspace, your dentist will then place a rubber dam around the tooth. This sheet of latex helps isolate the tooth from saliva and moisture, which can interfere with the filling process.

Mixing and Placement of Amalgam

Amalgam is a metal alloy made by combining mercury with other metals like silver, tin, and copper. Your dentist will carefully measure and mix these components according to specific protocols to create a safe and effective filling material. Once mixed, the dentist will use a special tool to pack the amalgam filling material into the cleaned-out cavity of your tooth.

Condensation and Carving

Your dentist will use a condensing instrument to press the amalgam firmly into the cavity. This ensures a tight fit and helps prevent future leaks or problems. After condensing, your dentist will carefully carve and sculpt the amalgam to match the original shape and contours of your tooth. This ensures a natural bite and proper chewing function.

Final Polishing

Once the filling is shaped correctly, your dentist will polish it to create a smooth surface. This minimizes the risk of irritation to your tongue or cheek and makes the filling feel more comfortable.

Costs of Dental Amalgam Fillings

Patients can expect to spend between $50 to $150 for a single amalgam filling. However, each case is unique and will fluctuate based on certain factors including the size and location of the cavity and the location of the dental practice. In most cases, dental insurance covers a portion of dental filling treatments.

Are Amalgam Fillings Safe?

The safety of dental amalgam and its mercury content has been a topic of debate for many years. Here are some insights to consider:

Mercury Release

Dental amalgam fillings release small amounts of mercury vapor over time, especially during chewing or brushing. However, the amount released is very low. The presence of mercury in dental amalgam is a common concern, but research indicates that the low level of mercury absorbed from amalgam fillings is not enough to cause toxic effects.

Mercury Exposure Levels

While having amalgam fillings can result in increased mercury levels in the body, these levels are generally considered to be well below safety thresholds set by major health organizations. Elemental mercury in dental amalgam can cross through barriers, but there is no evidence of adverse health effects.

Exceptions

Some individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of mercury or may have allergic reactions to the components of the amalgam. In such rare cases, an alternative filling material might be recommended. Dental professionals play a crucial role in addressing these safety concerns and advising on the best treatment options.

Replacing Dental Amalgam Fillings

Dental amalgam fillings can be replaced for various reasons, including:

• Cosmetic Concerns: Amalgam fillings are silver in color and can be more noticeable than tooth-colored composite fillings.
• Fractures or Breakage: Over time, fillings can become worn, cracked, or broken.
• Decay: If decay develops around or under an existing filling, it may need to be replaced.
• Concerns About Mercury: While the American Dental Association and numerous other health organizations consider amalgam fillings safe, some people choose to have them replaced due to concerns about mercury exposure. However, removing an amalgam filling can temporarily increase exposure to mercury vapor released during the process. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of having amalgam fillings removed with your dentist.

If you have concerns about existing amalgam fillings, it is crucial to discuss them with your dentist. Removing good amalgam fillings can result in unnecessary loss of healthy parts of the tooth and can release more mercury than keeping the filling in place. If you need a filling replaced, contact the San Luis Obispo office of Dr. Ramirez today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Need Dental Fillings, Contact Dr. Ramirez Today!

Amalgam fillings remain a reliable and cost-effective option for dental restorations. While they have some drawbacks, their durability and longevity make them a valuable choice for many patients. When considering dental fillings, discussing your options with our dentist to make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences is essential.

If you’re looking to replace your amalgam filling with a tooth-colored filling, schedule your appointment with our SLO dentist today by calling (805) 549-8483. Our state-of-the-art practice serves patients from San Luis Obispo, and surrounding areas such as Santa Margarita, Arroyo Grande, and Pismo Beach, CA.