Advantages Include:
- Support and protect the tooth
- Protects from future discomfort and infection
- Affordable
- Durable and long-lasting
Disadvantages Include:
- Possible short-term sensitivity to hot or cold after the filling is placed.
- The silver-colored filling is not as natural looking as one that is tooth colored, especially when the restoration is near the front of the mouth and shows when the patient laughs or speaks.
- To prepare the tooth, the dentist may need to remove more tooth structure to accommodate an amalgam filling than for other types of fillings.
- Some question the safety of amalgams relating to its mercury content.
Amalgams are placed after decay is removed from a tooth. Our office can provide and place amalgam fillings in certain cases, but our preferred treatment is Composite Restorations because of the disadvantages noted above. Cost varies widely, due to the amount of surfaces and complexity involved in the removal and filling. Our front office staff can give you an estimate for your particular fee and insurance coverage.
