Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, have been a popular choice for dental restorations for over a century. They’re a durable and cost-effective option for repairing cavities and restoring damaged teeth. While dental amalgam fillings aren’t used as widely with the advancement of technology and treatments, many patients may still have them.
Our Grand Haven dentist breaks down amalgam fillings below. If you need to schedule an appointment with our team, call us today at (616) 842-2850. While we don’t offer amalgam fillings, we do offer composite dental fillings at our dental practice.
Amalgam fillings are restorations used to repair cavities, tooth decay, and damaged teeth. They consist of a mixture of metals, primarily mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This mixture forms a strong and durable filling material that can withstand the rigors of chewing and lasts for many years.
There are various benefits to dental amalgam restorations, including:
Just like other dental treatments, there are certain disadvantages associated with an amalgam restoration, such as:
Patients can expect to spend between $50 to $150 for a single amalgam filling. However, each case is unique and will fluctuate based on certain factors including the size and location of the cavity and the location of the dental practice. In most cases, dental insurance covers a portion of dental filling treatments.
The safety of dental amalgam and its mercury content has been a topic of debate for many years. Here are some insights to consider:
Dental amalgam fillings can be replaced for various reasons, including:
If you need a filling replaced, contact John Leitner, DDS today.
The risk of adverse health effects from amalgam fillings is minimal, but some people may experience localized allergic reactions.
With proper care, amalgam fillings can last 10 to 15 years or even longer.
Amalgam fillings remain a reliable and cost-effective option for dental restorations. While they have some drawbacks, their durability and longevity make them a valuable choice for many patients. When considering dental fillings, discussing your options with our dentist to make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences is essential.
If you’re looking to replace your amalgam filling with a tooth-colored filling, schedule your appointment with our Grand Haven dentist today by calling (616) 842-2850.