Amalgam remediation

What is “amalgam”?

Amalgam is an alloy of mercury and other metals like silver, copper tin etc.

In purely practical terms, the mercury is mixed with metal powders, which makes the mixture solid. Due to the content of base metals, this material is not permanently mouth. Furthermore, the binding of mercury in this alloy is increasingly viewed critically.

Amalgam rehabilitation is a proven method of having the material, which has been highly criticized for a long time, removed from your teeth.

In the past, amalgam was used by dentists as a standardized filling material for defective teeth. Over a long period of time, amalgam had proven itself as the oldest filling material for damaged teeth.

Today, amalgam is not the first choice in dentistry: 

Nowadays, amalgam fillings are of secondary importance. Nevertheless, the filling material had its justification for a long time. To this day, dentists are amazed at how effectively the filling material withstands strong stresses caused by chewing. Experience shows that amalgam fillings last for more than 20 years.

Due to an increasingly critical view of amalgam, there has been a stormy further development of dental filling materials.

The toxic effect of amalgam

Nowadays, the material is replaced by other filling materials in amalgam restorations, as the substance is harmful to the body due to its mercury content. Since amalgam contains mercury, medical experts assume an increased risk. Nevertheless, the material is a cost-effective option for restoring diseased teeth as part of caries treatment.

If you choose an amalgam filling, there are other aspects to consider.

So-called galvanic currents in the mouth lead to an increased release of mercury when amalgam comes into contact with other metals such as dental gold.

Alternatives?

A first alternative is dental cement, but only for a limited period of time.

Next, so-called composite fillings come into question. Metal-free, esthetically tooth-colored, durable.

A classic method for amalgam restoration is an inlay. These inlay fillings made of gold or ceramic in dental laboratories are bonded or cemented to affected teeth. The extent to which remediation is an option for you depends on factors such as the condition and age of the amalgam fillings. Additionally, dentists advise amalgam restorations when dental fillings are damaged or leaking.

The right contacts for amalgam restoration

If you would like more information about amalgam restoration, we will be happy to assist you with our many years of experience. No matter whether you would like a treatment or a discussion – you have come to the right place.