What Is an Amalgam Filling?

Amalgam Filling – Overview

An amalgam filling is a dental filling material that is a mixture of different metals. The filling material comprises of powdered alloys of copper, silver, tin, and liquid mercury and is used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay.

Amalgam fillings have long been used as popular filling options. If you are in need of a dental filling, you need to know about the pros and cons of an amalgam filling.

Pros of Amalgam Fillings

• Less expensive choice of filling material
• Lasting and durable and is less likely to break compared to other types of filling materials, and
• It is beneficial for larger tooth preparations or in conditions where the presence of moisture makes using other materials unsuitable. 

Cons of Amalgam Fillings 

While amalgam fillings have a few benefits, you should also know some of the shortcomings of this filling material.

• The use of elemental mercury in amalgam filling can have lasting health outcomes, particularly in young children and pregnant women, and
• An amalgam filling can lead to sensitivity reactions or allergies. 

The Right Choice of Dental Filling Material for You

While amalgam fillings have been used for over a century, with advances in technology, we now have several other dental filling materials available. Some of the filling materials that are now used include composite, ionomers, and porcelain. However, which filling material is right for you can only be determined by a reliable dentist in Castle Rock, CO.

Call (303) 660-5576 or schedule an appointment for a consultation with our dentists at Meadows Family Dentistry.