Tooth sensitivity and pain inside the mouth can create significant problems and also affect the functioning of daily life. When any dental problem is encountered and a doctor is visited, the first method applied is usually a filling. The questions “What is an amalgam filling? How is it done?” can be answered by explaining the treatment method. Various materials are used for the filling procedure, and the amalgam version is one of the most frequently preferred.
A dental filling is used in the treatment of decayed or problematically developed teeth. Problems that can lead to an abscess or cause pain when eating can be treated with a dental filling. The filling procedure, which is easier and less painful than root canal therapy, is generally performed using amalgam.
To avoid losing a tooth while treating dental issues, a filling procedure is often performed. The filling can be composed of a combination of different materials. An amalgam filling is also commonly known as a black or gray filling. Amalgam fillings, which can be created from a mixture of non-ferrous metals like copper and tin in their pure or alloyed state, protect the tooth in the best possible way.
This filling, made to protect problematic tooth roots, is especially used for molars. Although it can sometimes be visually unappealing, you can confidently choose amalgam filling options, which are extremely durable and protect adult teeth for a lifetime.
Amalgam fillings, which have the advantage of long-term use, contain mercury in their structure. Although a definitive conclusion has not been reached on whether it has any harm to the body, it has been determined that there is no harm in the short term.
The filling procedure, placed over the nerve cells inside the tooth, does not come into direct contact with the skin and therefore cannot affect the organs. The amalgam filling, produced from an alloy of non-ferrous metals and mercury, does not cause any directly observable harm, in addition to being long-lasting. Being affordable and durable has made it one of the most preferred treatment methods by dentists.
This type of filling, created by combining mercury and other metallic elements, is designed to prevent mercury from entering the body. However, problems related to mercury can arise during the initial procedure. Symptoms of amalgam filling poisoning generally include respiratory problems. A mercury allergy, which can be seen in less than 1% of the population, can lead to the harms of amalgam fillings and biological side effects. You can resolve any questions on this topic through allergy tests you can have at health institutions.
Due to claims that they are toxic, people who have had this type of filling in the past may apply to have it removed. Although it is not harmful, these beliefs, driven by the emergence of new filling methods, are leading to a shift towards the use of different, more expensive materials.
Before explaining the methods of amalgam filling removal, it is useful to mention its benefits:
The questions “What is an amalgam filling? How is it done?” are frequently searched in search engines by customers who want to get a dental filling. This treatment method, which was frequently used in past years, is now desired to be changed despite the benefits and healthy aspects of amalgam fillings, due to the emergence of different alternatives.
The removal process, which is quite laborious, involves separating the gray-black piece, which has hardened over the years and completely integrated with the tooth. Although no pain is felt due to the use of anesthesia, when you need to get a new filling, you will need to readjust your consumption habits. For this reason, covering options like crowns are more often preferred over the removal process.
This type of filling is made from a compound obtained by actively mixing mercury with other metals. The filling, which is both budget-friendly and quickly becomes compatible with the tooth, also allows for a high-quality choice in terms of method. The cheek area, easily numbed with local anesthesia, prevents you from feeling the step-by-step procedures performed on the tooth. Thus, a completely acceptable level of pain and process is created.
The amalgam filling process, which can be performed in a very practical and simple way, ends with the numbing of the area, the cleaning out of the tooth’s interior, and the addition of a tooth-like material that will not cause pain. Although the color of the silver filling may give the impression of an unusual procedure, it can be used comfortably in both adults and children. You can decide on the amalgam dental filling options, which are suitable for lifelong use depending on the care, together with your doctor.
1- Can You Get an MRI with an Amalgam Filling?
An MRI scan can be performed with an amalgam filling. Although it contains a metal alloy, the filling part does not pose a risk during an MRI because it cannot be separated from the body.
2- What Happens if an Amalgam Filling is Swallowed?
If an amalgam filling is swallowed, it will be expelled from the body over time. Therefore, no problem occurs.
3- Does an Amalgam Filling Wear Down?
The extremely high-quality and strong alloy structure makes the amalgam filling resistant to wear. As long as it is well-cared for and applied to adult teeth, an amalgam filling does not wear down.
