Why is Amalgam Rarely Used in Modern Dentistry?
Silver coloured amalgam restorations were a popular way to restore larger cavities in back teeth as older style composite resins lacked the necessary strength. Amalgam restorations are hard-wearing and cost-effective but are far less common since newer and stronger tooth coloured filling materials have been developed.
Nowadays dentists can restore large areas of decay, using the very latest tooth coloured composite resins that are able to withstand substantial chewing forces. In areas where this isn’t possible, we can use porcelain restorations to provide additional strength and structure to teeth that are more badly damaged.
What are the Advantages of Amalgam-Free Dentistry?
The Dental Group is an amalgam-free dental practice as these restorations are much healthier for teeth. When preparing a tooth for an amalgam-free restoration, we have to remove less tooth structure so we are able to preserve more of the original tooth. Composite resins and porcelains work more harmoniously with natural teeth, as unlike amalgam these materials do not flex when they come into contact with hot and cold. Over time, this flexing can cause micro-fractures in a tooth, weakening its structure.
Many people still have amalgam restorations. We wouldn’t necessarily advocate removing them if they are still viable, but all restorations need replacing periodically. Please talk to us if you are concerned about having amalgam in your mouth.
