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One of the common materials used to fill a dental cavity is dental amalgam. They are also referred to as silver fillings, but it does not only contain silver. It is a mixture of metals like liquid elemental mercury and an alloy of silver, tin and copper. Both of these fuse together to form an amalgam.

What is the amalgam filling procedure?

When you visit the dentist to consult for your tooth cavity, he may recommend you an amalgam filling. There are certain steps the dentist follows before the amalgam is placed in your cavity. First, the dentist removes the decay completely by drilling the tooth. He then shapes the cavity to make it suitable for amalgam placement. The dentist mixes the metals with liquid mercury to form an amalgam, and then it is placed in the cavity. Once done it instantly becomes a solid filling.

Who qualifies for amalgam filling?

Dental amalgam fillings are useful for people who are prone to tooth decay. They are also useful in scenarios where moisture is a concern and materials like resin do not effectively blend. Here, amalgam is the best resort.

If you do not fall in the following categories of patients, you may be eligible for an amalgam filling. Do consult the best dental surgeon in Chennai to know if you qualify.

Pregnant women
Nursing women
Children younger than 6 years
Patients with neurological diseases
People whose kidney function is impaired
People who are allergic to components used in the amalgam

Why is the amalgam filling procedure done?

This procedure is done to fix the cavity created due to dental decay. It helps prevent further decay from spreading to neighbouring teeth. An amalgam filling is also done to provide support to the cavity created by decay so that chewing and biting can be resumed as normal.

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What are the benefits of the amalgam filling procedure?

The material used in amalgam fillings hardens quickly making it an apt choice for dental cavity fillings.
It is a cost-effective option since the procedure can be completed in just a single sitting.
Amalgam fillings are highly durable and last long to help those teeth that withstand a lot of pressure.

What are its risks and complications?

There have been concerns about the use of mercury in amalgam fillings as they are considered poisonous. However, since mercury is mixed with an alloy of metals, the chemical nature is altered, making it safe to use in dental fillings.
Some people who are allergic to mercury or any other component used may develop sensitive reactions.

Consult the best dentist in Chennai to ascertain which is the best choice for your fillings.