Amalgam Replacements

Dental amalgam replacements refer to the process of replacing traditional silver amalgam fillings with newer, more aesthetically pleasing and biocompatible dental materials. Silver amalgam fillings have been used for decades to restore cavities, but they are visible, contain mercury (albeit in a stable form), and can sometimes cause teeth to weaken over time.

The most common alternatives for dental amalgam replacements are tooth-colored composite resin fillings and ceramic inlays or onlays. Composite resin fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass materials and can be shaded to match the natural color of the tooth. They bond directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy tooth structure. Ceramic inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that provide additional strength and aesthetics.

Dental amalgam replacements offer improved aesthetics, biocompatibility, and durability while preserving tooth structure. They are a popular choice for patients seeking a more natural and harmonious look in their smiles and are particularly beneficial when replacing older, deteriorating silver amalgam fillings.