I have a mouth full of metal fillings that I want to switch to the white composite fillings. I spoke to my dentist about it and he said that the older fillings are much stronger than the white ones. He tried the white ones and all of them had problems. I’d done some readings on the topic and everything online said the opposite. Now I’m not sure what to believe because I know the internet can be unreliable. Are the amalgam fillings stronger than the composite?
Spring
Dear Spring,
It is good to have a healthy skepticism of the internet. However, in this particular case, your dentist is the one being a bit wonky here. I think I know what happened in his case, though. The procedure for the old amalgam fillings is completely different from the procedure for placing composite fillings. Unfortunately, too many dentists think they are interchangeable. This leads to problems with his placement. That doesn’t mean the fillings themselves are bad.
In point of fact, the composite fillings are stronger than the amalgam fillings when they are done correctly. This is because the composite fillings are bonded directly to your teeth, strengthening them. Amalgam fillings actually weaken the teeth.
All of that being said, I would not suggest you push your dentist into switching out your fillings for you. It will not go well. Instead, I am going to recommend you see either a mercury-free dentist or a holistic dentist. These are dentists who are used to not only placing composite fillings but know the safe way to switch them out.
Sanitary Amalgam Removal
You may be wondering why I said the safe way to replace your fillings. That is because the main ingredient in amalgam fillings is mercury. While the American Dental Association has studies that say amalgam fillings are safe, you do not want to swallow or inhale any mercury, which is a known toxin.
Fortunately, there is a sanitary amalgam removal procedure. The type of dentists I listed above will know this procedure. It should include a stopper dam as well as cold water and suction to keep about the mercury fumes. This is important for your health.
This blog is brought to you by Enfield Dentist Dr. William Cummiskey.
