Amalgam fillings
Amalgam (metal) fillings are made of different metals mixed together: silver, copper, tin, zinc, and mercury. Mercury is the main concern of most people, as it is known for causing damage to the immune system, kidneys, liver, and the nervous system. You don’t have to worry – any mercury your body absorbs from dental fillings is minimal. When the time comes to have a filling replaced, though, or to get a new filling, white dental fillings are a much better choice. Amalgam fillings typically only last about 15 years, after which they may start to break down. They are especially susceptible to changes in temperature, which means they easily expand and contract, which can weaken the structure of your tooth and even cause it to break. It also means that the hot or cold temperature of your beverage or food can easily be conducted into your tooth and cause pain or discomfort.
Other people are more concerned about the unsightly appearance of metal fillings than they are about mercury. White fillings, which are made out of a resin compound, blend in with the tooth and can even be made to precisely match the color of your teeth. If you are concerned about keeping your smile beautiful, white resin fillings are an obvious choice.
Amalgam fillings are unattractive and can cause problems. White dental fillings are durable, safe, and blend right in so that no one will even realize you have a filling. If you think you might have a cavity, or if you are concerned about your old amalgam fillings, call the Konig Center for Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry in Houston, Texas, at (713) 668-2289 for an appointment.
