Filings are a method used to restore damaged teeth. There are a few different materials which are used for fillings, however, one of the most used is amalgam fillings.

However, as dentistry evolves, materials like amalgam are being used less frequently. Instead, materials like composite and porcelain are utilised for fillings. This is down to a variety of reasons but most commonly it boils down to the fantastic aesthetics of brighter filling materials.

What are amalgam fillings?

Amalgam is a filling material made up of mercury, combined with other metals such as zinc, tin, silver and copper. The filling has a silver finish to it due to its metallic components. For this reason, amalgam is predominantly used on the back teeth.

Amalgam’s popularity stems from its ability to be moulded and shaped to the tooth, making for quick and easy restorations. Additionally, amalgam is strong and can withstand the everyday wear and tear the mouth is exposed to, making it a reliable option offering a long-term solution.

Why make the change?

Though amalgam is a great and effective material for fillings, there are some considerations to be made around the aesthetics, the long-term health effects as well as the nature of the treatment itself.

Amalgam fillings have a silver appearance to them, which stands out against the natural white colour of teeth. These fillings are typically used on teeth towards the back of the mouth as it is less visible and more cost-effective to do. Whereas composite fillings can be matched to the natural colour of the tooth, allowing the filling to seamlessly blend with the teeth.  

The process used to prepare the teeth for fillings varies. Amalgam fillings require slight agitation to the surface to help the amalgam bond to the tooth. Where composite filling adheres to the teeth without the need to agitate or remove the tooth’s surface.

Amalgam is generally known to be medically safe, however, there are growing concerns about the long-term effects of being exposed to mercury. Though the probability of health implications is minimal, it should be something that’s thought about prior to getting a filling.

Amalgam fillings react to differing temperatures and are known to expand and contract under different heat. Usually, when exposed to heat, amalgam expands, which can become problematic as it can lead to teeth splitting and breaking.

What is the process for replacing an amalgam filling with a composite one?

The process starts with the teeth being assessed, to better understand the extent of the previous treatment. To do this the dentist may take an x-ray which helps to identify how big the area is that has been filled as well as checking if the filling has any nerves near to it. This will help the dentist determine what treatment is best suited to the patient’s needs.

The process begins with the dentist anaesthetising the area, this prevents patients from feeling discomfort or pain. The amalgam filling is then carefully removed by breaking it down into small chunks, using a dental drill. This is a safer method of removal as it doesn’t cause stress over the entirety of the tooth. The debris is retrieved from the mouth using a vacuum.

Once the filling material is completely removed from the tooth, the tooth is cleaned. If there are any more areas with damage or decay, the dentist will remove them before application. The cavity is prepared by etching the exposed surface. This helps the composite fix to the natural tooth.

The composite is applied to the tooth in layers and is cured between the layers to ensure the structure is maintained. Once the cavity has been filled, the dentist will move onto to replicating the natural contours of the teeth. The process is finalised with the dentist polishing the filling, giving it the natural shine and smoothness that a tooth has.

If you’re interested in making the change from an amalgam filling to a white composite filling, contact our team and we’d be happy to set up a consultation.