Why Should I Have My Child’s Metal Fillings Replaced?

Dentists have used fillings to treat tooth decay in patients of all ages for centuries. Up until recently, the most favored material for dental fillings was amalgam, a blend of metals such as silver, copper, and mercury. While these were effective at restoring damaged teeth, they can be quite visible within someone’s smile and may put the patient at risk for higher levels of mercury in their blood. Here’s why replacing your child’s old amalgam restorations with tooth-colored fillings may be a great idea.

What Is Dental Amalgam Made From?

Dental amalgam is an alloy made of metals like silver, tin, copper, and mercury, and it has been commonly used in dentistry for more than 150 years. While amalgam is strong, affordable, and durable, it has a few significant drawbacks for fillings. Metal readily expands and contracts in response to temperature changes, and this can cause a patient discomfort or even damage the tooth. Dental amalgam also starkly stands out from the color of natural enamel, making it quite visible when the patient grins or laughs. Most significantly of all, the heavy metals in amalgam may be harmful over time.

What Risks Come with Fillings Made from Dental Amalgam?

Mercury is the only metal in a liquid state at room temperature, and it gives off a vapor that people can inhale. Once inside the lungs, it can travel to many other parts of the body, leading to toxic effects in key organs like the kidneys and the brain. Many experts believe that amalgam fillings can lead to the accumulation of this harmful heavy metal in the body’s tissues. However, there is not enough data to conclusively demonstrate that this build-up of mercury eventually results in organ damage.

How Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Better?

Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin that imitates the color of real teeth and readily forms bonds with the existing enamel. This results in a lifelike restoration that restores much of the tooth’s natural strength. It also contains no mercury or other toxic materials, and it doesn’t expand or contract rapidly as a result of changing temperatures.

If you’re looking for a way to replace you’re child’s metal fillings, tooth-colored fillings may be the answer. Consulting with your pediatric dentist can determine if tooth-colored restorations are a suitable course of treatment for your child.

About the Author

Dr. Allen Pearson graduated with his dental degree from the Creighton University School of Dentistry before completing a one-year General Practice Residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Texas Dental Association. His office in Wylie, TX offers pediatric general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. For more information on the benefits of tooth-colored fillings, contact the office online or dial (972) 429-7070.