An inexpensive way to restore a small amount of tooth decay.
A small amount of decay on a portion of a back tooth
We do not use mercury/silver fillings as a restorative material. However, these restorations were common in the past because they were an inexpensive way to restore a small amount of tooth decay. This section will give you some information on silver fillings. Please click on composite fillings if you would like to see the modern tooth-colored restorations we perform here.
Silver fillings have been used for more than 125 years. Their biggest advantage is that they are quickly placed, making them relatively inexpensive. They are also relatively durable.
Silver fillings do not bond (stick) to the tooth structure. This requires the preparation to be "undercut," creating a chamber that is smaller at the surface of the tooth and wider inside. This undercut keeps the filling from falling out of the tooth.
The problem is that the creation of this undercut requires the removal of more healthy tooth structure than is necessary. This weakens the tooth and predisposes it to fracture when biting into hard items. Since fillings will break down from normal wear, they will eventually need to be replaced, and this will require the removal of even more healthy tooth structure.
Though silver fillings contain some mercury, current studies indicate what appear to be no measurable health risks to patients. However, we do know that mercury is a highly toxic material that can cause neurological and kidney disease. Adults and children have even been warned to limit the consumption of certain types of fish that carry high levels of environmental mercury. Even if there are no direct risks to patients, the extensive use of mercury in fillings may have a long term environmental impact.
Composite (white) fillings are an excellent alternative, limiting the removal of healthy tissue and posing no known environmental risk. In cases of extensive decay, inlays/onlays or crowns are a much better restoration.