Filling Upgrade FAQ

Why should I replace old fillings that can't be seen when I smile?
Amalgam fillings are certainly very visible because of being such a different color and texture from tooth enamel. Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in much better. But appearance isn't the only reason to replace them. As they age, they tend to shrink. They aren't bonded to the tooth they fill, but just packed in tightly. So if they shrink enough, they can loosen and sometimes fall out. They also expand with heat, which can slowly weaken the tooth.

Has it been proven that mercury in fillings is harmful?
No, it's controversial and still being debated. The FDA stated in September, 2006 that it stands by its previous decision that mercury in dental fillings isn't harmful unless you're allergic to mercury. But several consumer groups dispute this conclusion.

The tooth on the left has the old, large style of filling. Once that filling is removed, notice how cracked and damaged the tooth is underneath.

What are amalgam fillings made of?
They're a mix of silver, copper, tin and mercury, with mercury making up about 50% of their weight. That doesn't mean they're 50% mercury though, because mercury is heavy.

How can mercury in your filling hurt the rest of you?
As we continue on with our daily chewing, teeth brushing, and perhaps teeth grinding, the mercury in the filling very slowly gives off mercury vapor, which is absorbed by our soft mouth tissue and builds up in the body.

Many studies have been done worldwide to discover where in the body it resides, and have found it in the brain, adrenal glands, and breast milk, to give just a few examples. Some studies have connected it with diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Multiple Sclerosis.

Despite the many studies, agreement hasn't yet been established as to exactly how mercury from fillings does hurt us, or even whether in fact it does.

What can fillings be made of besides amalgam?
They can be made of dental bonding material (plastic), which comes in a number of tooth shades, and is like putty in consistency. Or, a better alternative is porcelain.

What's the difference in procedures for porcelain and plastic fillings?
Plastic fillings are made in the mouth, by placing a thick putty into your tooth's cavity and "curing" it with a blue light. Porcelain fillings are fabricated in a dental laboratory, this is why they are so durable and long lasting, making them a favorite of people who don't want to go to the dentist!

What would be the ideal reason for choosing plastic fillings?
Plastic fillings are best when kept small or where the tooth is not biting against the opposing tooth. When used for large restorations, they can have a relatively short life span.

What would be the ideal reason for choosing porcelain fillings?
If you want a filling that fits perfectly and wears like original enamel without the worry of early breakdowns, porcelain is the choice.

If you would like to replace the fillings you currently have for aesthetic or health-related reasons, call Dr's Durham & Strickland today for your Initial Consultation. Or just simply click here and fill out our online form to request a consultation.

Related Pages:

• Filling Upgrade FAQ
• Filling Upgrade