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A viewer asks an interesting question that many wonder about, "I have all silver fillings.
Should I have them replaced with what they use now?" Silver fillings are also called
dental amalgam and are made from a combination of materials that include mercury, silver,
tin, and copper. A reliable material and used for nearly 150 years, silver feelings last
a long time and cost less than other kinds of fillings, which is tooth-colored fillings.
According to the American Dental Association, because they're a strong material, silver-color
fillings are often the best choice for large cavities or those that occur in the back teeth
where a lot of force is needed to chew. Silver fillings also harden quickly so it's useful
in areas that are difficult to keep dry during placement, such as those below the gum line.
Because it takes less time to place than the tooth-colored fillings, amalgam is also an
effective material for children and those with special needs who may have a more difficult
time during treatment. One disadvantage of amalgam is that these fillings are not natural
looking. Additionally, silver fillings can expand when they set, which can put stress
on teeth in cases of very large silver fillings. Although dental amalgam is a safe, commonly
used dental material, you may wonder about it's content. It's important to know that
it is a safe, stable material and credible scientific evidence confir affirms the safety
of dental amalgam and shows that it is a safe, effective material for filling cavities. An
additional question concerns replacement of silver fillings. Silver fillings should be
replaced if they are cracked, broken, or leaking. Or tooth decay is beginning again under the
filling. It's generally not recommended that fillings be replaced simply to exchange it
with a different material. If you're uncertain, talk with your dentist about which material
is best for you. And it goes without saying, as the ADA recommends, that the best filling
is no filling. And prevention is the best medicine.