“Aren’t metal fillings bad for you or something?” Dr. Blunston’s restorative and cosmetic dentistry practice near Calgary hears the question often. For decades, “silver” fillings were the dominant choice, but times have changed. Is the rumor about metal fillings true? People want to know.
Thanks to advances in modern dental materials and techniques, dentists now have more ways to create pleasing, natural-looking smiles. The strength and durability of traditional amalgam (a mix of metal alloys) made them a popular choice for decades, especially for large fillings or fillings in the back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. However, some concern was raised regarding the health safety of using elemental mercury, since between 43 and 54 percent of an amalgam filling is composed of this.
The Canadian and American Dental Associations continue to consider amalgam fillings as falling within the bounds of safety regulations. However, it cannot be denied that a small amount of mercury is released as a vapor, with the possibility that it may be inhaled into your lungs and consequently enter your bloodstream. How much vapor is emitted depends largely on the number of amalgam fillings you have, the amount of chewing you do, any teeth grinding habits, and time spent drinking hot liquids.
Composite fillings on the other hand, are tooth-colored and made of glass and resin. They can be used both for fillings and to repair defects in teeth. They provide good durability and resistance to fracture, especially in small-to-mid size restorations. Less tooth structure is removed when preparing a tooth for this filling choice than amalgam. Can you see why most people have made the switch?
Dr. Blunston is pleased to offer metal-free fillings in his restorative and cosmetic dentistry practice. Calgary area residents have nothing to lose, and everything to gain by visiting Blunston Dental Group today!
