A filling is something that most people will have undergone at some point in their lives. They are a form of treatment for tooth decay or to restore a damaged tooth.
The most popular type of filling is the silver amalgam filling.
A filling is the name of a dental procedure in which a material such as silver amalgam or a composite (white) filling is used to treat a decayed tooth. This material is inserted into the tooth where it then prevents the further spread of decay or repairs any damage.
The advantage of silver amalgam fillings is their durability. These fillings can last for more than 10 years or more compared to other types of fillings. Composite white fillings have a natural colour which is similar to the colour of your natural teeth and so blends it well with them. Plus there have been issues raised about the safety of silver amalgam fillings due to their mercury content which has prompted some people to switch to composite fillings instead.
This treatment stops the decay from spreading into the root where it will cause a serious infection, e.g. an abscess. This also removes the need for a tooth extraction. The silver amalgam filling is the traditional type of filling which is composed of various metals such as copper, tin and mercury. This combination helps to retain the normal function of the tooth.
Silver amalgam fillings have attracted some negative press commentary which is related to their use of mercury. There have been reports of people developing a health problem which is linked to mercury poisoning although the risk is considered very small. The alternative is to choose a composite white filling or inlays and onlays.
