![]() You might be thinking, “why use mercury?” Mercury is used in amalgam because it helps make the filling material flexible. Sometimes amalgam includes small amounts of zinc, indium or palladium. The combination includes silver, mercury, tin and copper. Why Is Mercury Used in Dental Amalgam?Īlthough they are sometimes referred to as “silver fillings,” amalgam fillings are actually made from a combination of metals that make it the most effective and popular filling material used in dentistry over the past 150 years. Millions of people have amalgam fillings and there is no evidence that they present a direct health risk. However this is merely an environmental measure intended to reduce mercury contamination of the environment over time. ![]() As of 2018, new regulations in the UK and European Union have restricted the use of amalgam fillings, meaning they are no longer allowed in patients under the age of 15. Some concern has been raised in the past over the elemental mercury used in amalgam (which we will get into soon), but there’s no need to worry. As the cherry on top, amalgam is more budget-friendly, as it is less costly than other dental materials available. However, amalgam fillings are more versatile than the newer materials, because they can be used for other dental situations and hold up better over time, especially in teeth that undergo wear and tear from pressure and chewing. Since many dentists now use tooth-coloured materials to fill cavities and restore teeth, amalgam fillings are less common than in the past. Also known as “silver fillings,” amalgam fillings are silver in appearance, but not in composition. What Is Amalgam?ĭental amalgam was once one of the most common materials used to fill cavities. Not to fear – we're here to help put your mind at ease and answer some of your questions about dental amalgam fillings and their safety. ![]() You might have heard rumours about amalgam fillings that contain mercury and could be wondering if it's safe to put in your mouth. ![]() Have a cavity that needs filling? Your dentist might use a dental amalgam filling to seal it up and stop the decay in its tracks. ![]()
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