If a tooth gets a cavity for some reason, a filling is needed. However, there are a couple different types of fillings that exist, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Robert W. Johnson DMD, MAGD chooses to use a filling that is tooth-colored over “silver fillings,” but for what reason?
The number one reason is that silver fillings are 50% mercury. A silver filling, also known as an amalgam (uh-mal-guhm), is made up of a mixture of liquid mercury and a powdered alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper. The main reason amalgams are called silver fillings is their silver-like appearance. Although these fillings have been used for more than 150 years in hundreds of millions of patients, research is starting to indicate that these fillings, due to the mercury in them, may not be safe.
The other main reason for using tooth-colored fillings over amalgams is that tooth-colored fillings look more natural. Something silver-looking will stand out much more in your mouth than something white would!
For these reasons, Robert W. Johnson DMD has decided to only use tooth-colored fillings in his dental office. He is always concerned about his patient’s health and safety. After all, when it comes to a patient’s well-being, no doctor should ever take chances! If you need to have a filling done, come visit our dental office in Dawson, Georgia today to see about getting it done without mercury!
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