Amalgam Fillings
West LA » Amalgam Fillings
Though we all try to avoid cavities, they can sometimes occur despite our best efforts. Improper home care, such as not brushing frequently or efficiently, or lack of regular flossing can lead to cavities. Genetics can cause some people to be born with softer, weaker enamel. Teeth with deep grooves may also be prone to cavities. Whatever the reason, sometimes the plaque from food the bacteria from your own saliva can get caught on teeth or between teeth and begin to decay. When this happens, it is best to seek a filling right away, before the decay can spread to the tooth nerves, root, or gums. Cavities that are left to foster are the number one way to contract gum disease.
If Dr. Solomon detects a cavity in one of your teeth, either by visual evaluation or x-ray, they will set up an appointment for you to return and have the cavity or cavities filled. First, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the tooth and the area around the tooth. If you are nervous about either the drilling or the anesthetic injections, you can discuss your concerns with the CCIND staff, and together you will find a way to keep you relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. Next, the cavity will be drilled, to remove all decay and to create a smooth place to inset the filling.
Two types of fillings are available: amalgam and composite. Amalgam fillings are the typical filling you probably picture in your head when you think of having a cavity filled, though they are actually less popular today than their counterparts, composite fillings. Amalgam fillings are shiny and silver-appearing. They are incredibly strong, much stronger than composite fillings, and so are less likely to crack under pressure, making them a great option for molars, which receive the brunt of chewing. Also, amalgam fillings are inexpensive and usually covered by any dental insurance plan, making them a great choice for those who are looking to save money, especially in this tight economy.
As with any medical procedure where there is more than one option, amalgam fillings do have drawbacks that need to be considered when making an informed decision. First, amalgam fillings contain mercury. Though it is known that mercury is toxic to humans, debate on the safety of these fillings is still debated, as the amount of mercury is very small, and since the mercury is harden, has very little chance of ever making its way into the bloodstream, where it is toxic. Regardless of whether or not amalgam fillings may actually be dangerous, it is something to consider. The most significant drawback that most people cite when choosing composite fillings over amalgam though, is that amalgam fillings stand out in the mouth, as they cannot be matched to the teeth, making them an unpopular choice for front teeth. The staff at CCIND will help you to make the decision about what type of filling is best for you.
The staff here at CCIND will be happy to discuss amalgam fillings with you. Please call for a consultation today.