{"id":4818,"date":"2022-04-24T04:16:00","date_gmt":"2022-04-24T04:16:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/?p=4818"},"modified":"2022-04-28T00:10:14","modified_gmt":"2022-04-28T00:10:14","slug":"the-dangers-of-silver-fillings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/the-dangers-of-silver-fillings\/","title":{"rendered":"The Dangers of Silver Fillings"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Although many people are concerned that silver fillings are dangerous, there is no cause for concern. This type of dental filling has been used for over a century without causing health problems. Multiple studies have demonstrated that the metals used in dental fillings are safe for the body, and all reputable associations support the use of silver fillings. While mercury may contain a small amount of methylmercury, the mercury in dental fillings is stable because it is bound to other metals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6615f240bfcaf\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6615f240bfcaf\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/the-dangers-of-silver-fillings\/#Amalgam_fillings\" title=\"Amalgam fillings\">Amalgam fillings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/the-dangers-of-silver-fillings\/#Composite_fillings\" title=\"Composite fillings\">Composite fillings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/the-dangers-of-silver-fillings\/#White_fillings\" title=\"White fillings\">White fillings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/the-dangers-of-silver-fillings\/#Metal_amalgam_fillings\" title=\"Metal amalgam fillings\">Metal amalgam fillings<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Amalgam_fillings\"><\/span>Amalgam fillings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Amalgam fillings are made by mixing silver-base alloy shavings with mercury. Amalgam fillings are made of 40-70% Ag, 25-29% Sn, and 2-40% Cu, with a small amount of Zn (zero percent) lost to the environment as oxide. The amalgam is then packed into the cavity and allowed to set for six to eight hours. After it has set, it expands about 0.1%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mercury is a very versatile and flexible substance. It can fill cracks and gaps in teeth. The dentist must mix it with an alloy power in order to make the filling solid and hard. The result is a fast healing process for the patient. Unlike other types of metal fillings, mercury will not cause an allergic reaction if swallowed. However, there are some precautions to consider before getting amalgam fillings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although mercury has been linked to Alzheimer's disease, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the American Dental Association have denied the link between amalgam dental fillings and this disease. Still, it is best to avoid amalgam fillings if you have one, as you will lose some healthy tooth structure in the process. So, what are the risks of amalgam fillings? If you are concerned about mercury levels in your mouth, you should seek advice from a dentist before removing your old amalgam fillings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have amalgam fillings, be aware that they may not be as natural-looking as a tooth-colored filling. They may also be exposed to different temperatures in the mouth. Moreover, they can weaken the remaining teeth, and dentists may have to remove more tooth structure to fit the amalgam filling. And speaking of weakening, patients should discuss the pros and cons of amalgam fillings with their dentist before they decide on a replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although mercury is poisonous, the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease or Multiple Sclerosis after amalgam fillings are removed are very small. In fact, mercury in amalgam fillings has been linked to various health conditions, including infertility and multiple sclerosis. However, there are a few steps that you can take to make sure your amalgam fillings are safe and effective. Once you have consulted with your dentist, a dentist will advise you on the best way to remove your old fillings and replace them with the new ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Composite_fillings\"><\/span>Composite fillings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a cavity in your tooth, you may be able to have it changed to a composite silver filling. This process is fairly simple and takes just one visit. Before the filling process can begin, your dentist will choose a shade for your filling. This color will affect the brightness of your tooth. Then, the dentist will use a special light to harden the filling. Once it is hardened, your dentist will polish it to make it look as natural as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned above, the American Dental Association and FDA have warned against the use of mercury in dental fillings, but these are safe for adults. The mercury vapor released by amalgam fillings may have neurotoxic effects and some patients are allergic to metals. The good news is that there are now many alternatives to silver fillings. Composite resin fillings, which are made from a plastic material called acrylic resin, are reinforced with powdered glass quartz, silica, and other ceramic particles. They closely match the color of your natural tooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When compared to composite silver fillings, composite fillings last seven to ten years. They are almost equivalent to silver fillings, but they have several advantages. Dental silver amalgam is made from a mixture of silver, tin, and copper. The combination of these metals binds together to form a sturdy filling. It can also withstand dramatic temperature changes within the mouth. You can have an amalgam filling removed without an appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Composite fillings are the most popular dental restorations today. They require less tooth structure to be removed than amalgam fillings. However, they do not last as long as amalgam fillings and can only last five to 10 years on average. If you have a large cavity, you may have to visit your dentist again in a few years to make sure the composite filling is still in good condition. However, they are not as attractive as amalgam fillings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"White_fillings\"><\/span>White fillings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a silver filling in your teeth, you can opt to replace it with a white one. In such cases, the dentist will need to examine the silver filling to ensure it is safe to remove. White fillings can be used to improve the appearance of your smile, as well as your comfort and self-confidence. But, before you choose this treatment, you should understand the pros and cons of both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While white fillings are often considered the better option for aesthetic purposes, they are not as strong and can lead to recurrent decay. Moreover, they cost more than silver fillings. Silver fillings, also known as dental amalgams, are composed of a mixture of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Silver fillings tend to harden faster than white fillings, which means that they can look dull and grey over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>White and silver fillings have different advantages. While white fillings are generally more aesthetic, they are also more durable. If you are interested in getting white fillings, you should first check out your dentist's qualifications and experience. There are also several advantages to replacing silver fillings with white ones. But, make sure to understand that white fillings have a higher lifetime value than silver ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another major drawback of silver fillings is their tendency to compromise the structure of the tooth. A biomimetic replacement can help restore the structure of a tooth. This will avoid the need for crowns, which remove significant portions of the healthy tooth structure and increase the risk of root canal. Instead, biomimetic silver fillings can restore the strength and function of the tooth. And unlike silver fillings, white ones do not require root canals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>White fillings are a better option than amalgam. While amalgam fillings are durable and cheap, white ones are more durable and long-lasting. Compared to amalgam fillings, composite white fillings are made of glass and quartz, with a resin base. While white fillings can be more expensive than amalgam ones, they have numerous benefits. So, why would you want to choose white fillings?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Metal_amalgam_fillings\"><\/span>Metal amalgam fillings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For 150 years, dental professionals used metal amalgam fillings to repair decayed teeth. These fillings are made from a combination of metals, including copper, tin, and zinc, and contain about 50% mercury. These fillings have several advantages, including low cost and long-lasting results. However, there are some negative side effects of these fillings. This article will explore some of these negative effects and what you can do to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most significant risk of exposure to mercury from old amalgam fillings occurs during their removal. Patients are exposed to high levels of mercury during these procedures, including the placement and removal of the fillings themselves. Although there is some debate about the amount of mercury released, dentists should follow appropriate procedures to limit patients' exposure to mercury. If the filling breaks, it may be necessary to replace it with a dental crown. However, if it is still in good condition, it can be repaired or replaced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another risk of metal amalgam fillings is that they are sensitive to temperature changes. As amalgam fillings contain 50% mercury, they can expand and contract based on temperature changes. If you consume hot or cold liquids, they can expand and cause cracks. As the expansions continue, they weaken the remaining tooth tissue. And because of this, patients with metal amalgam fillings should avoid these types of fillings and opt for a composite one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, metal amalgam fillings conduct heat and cold and put pressure on the nerve inside the tooth. This causes the tooth to crack, and hot and cold liquids can penetrate the tooth through the metal amalgam filling. Metal amalgam fillings also create a space around the tooth, making it more vulnerable to bacteria and acids. It can also result in discoloration of the teeth and an aged look. These metal fillings also increase sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although there are still many health benefits associated with mercury, these fillings have also been linked to increased mercury levels in the blood. As a result, the risks associated with metal amalgam fillings are not as high as people might think. However, it is still important to talk to your dentist about any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing. It's important to remember that mercury levels in the blood are increased with the number of metal amalgam fillings a person has.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Although many people are concerned that silver fillings are dangerous, there is no cause for concern. This type of dental filling has been used for over a century without causing health problems. Multiple studies have demonstrated that the metals used in dental fillings are safe for the body, and all reputable associations support the use [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4864,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[40],"tags":[98,275,277,276],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4818"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4818"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4818\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4865,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4818\/revisions\/4865"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4864"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4818"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4818"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prvdental.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4818"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}