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Renowned for their strength and durability, amalgam fillings are increasingly being replaced by mercury-free and more aesthetically-pleasing dental filling options, such as white composite fillings. London dentists use the latest dental materials and technology to give patients such choices in treatments.
Amalgam is a metal alloy blended with mercury and other metals, such as silver, copper and tin. Amalgam fillings are considered a cost effective, quick and easy dental filling option. However, the threat of mercury toxicity over time from such amalgam fillings containing a 50 percent concentration is a real one, not just for individuals but the environment.
Exposure to mercury may damage human and animal organs, resulting in diseases such as Minamata and Hunter-Russell Syndrome, and sensory impairment. Dentists all over the world, including London, are replacing amalgam fillings with healthier treatments without mercury.
Amalgam Fillings Alternatives
Alternate dental filling options include Composite Resin Fillings, Ceramics Fillings, Cast Gold or Gold Foil Fillings, and Glass Lonomer Fillings. People with surface or deep tooth cavities, cracked or damaged teeth may benefit from these dental filling treatments, including inlays, onlays and crowns.
Composite resin fillings consist of a plastic and fine glass blend and may be applied directly or indirectly through heat-curing for added strength when bonding to existing teeth. Gold alloy is used for all types of gold fillings, serving as inlays, onlays and crowns that are non-corrosive and durable.
Porcelain is used for the same purpose with tooth-coloured results that enhance smiles. Glass lonomer fillings are a combination of acrylic and fluoroaluminosilicate obtained from glass and are used in a similar way as composite resin fillings.
All fillings serve to strengthen tooth structure, prevent tooth decay and tooth loss. Depending on dental condition, individuals have choices of fillings to best meet their oral health needs and appearance.