Replacing amalgam fillings – is it necessary?

The use of amalgam in dentistry is a very broad and controversial topic. Is it better to replace an old filling with a new one? Are amalgam fillings harmful to our body due to mercury? To find out, read our short article.

Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry since the 19th century. They are now widely used all over the world due to their low price, durability and ease of use. Their chemical composition includes compounds such as: silver, tin, copper and controversial mercury, which constitutes about 3% of amalgam content. Mercury is considered one of the most toxic substances for humans. Like other heavy metals, it has a detrimental effect on the cell membrane, wreaking havoc on the respiratory system and the central nervous system.

Currently, there are two types of amalgam fillings – the old type, i.e. containing gamma-2-phase, which can release mercury into our body, and newer ones without gamma-2-phase. The results of studies conducted by the FDA and published in 2008 on the harmfulness of old-type amalgams, confirmed that they can affect the development of autoimmune diseases and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Replace old amalgam fillings or not?

Dentists are divided on this subject. However, most specialists in the field of general dentistry are in favour of replacing amalgam fillings, not only because of the harmful mercury in their composition, but above all because of their properties. Amalgam fillings, although more resistant to abrasion than composite one, unfortunately do not bond with tooth tissues, making teeth more susceptible to leaks and further development of caries. Also, they don’t look nice and make it difficult to recognize the first symptoms of caries in the form of discoloration.

You should therefore consider replacing the old amalgam with a new composite filling. The composite is a material that is completely safe for the body, with high adhesion to the enamel, thanks to which it bonds tightly to the tooth tissues. Thanks to the very wide range of colours available, composite fillings are highly aesthetic. They are practically undistinguishable from natural tooth tissues. New composite materials also have high abrasion class.

Note!

A healthy, live tooth is made up of hard tissues, i.e. enamel and dentin, which surround and protect the pulp tissue inside the tooth. The pulp is a highly innervated tissue that has nutritional and sensory functions. It lets you know when a tooth hurts, it allows you to feel heat/cold and pressure.