Silver Fillings (Amalgams)

• Silver fillings, otherwise known as Amalgams, are an alloyof several metals ( Silver, Zinc, Tin etc. ) and Mercury. Oncemixed, they make up dental amalgam. This restoration has beenused successively for many, many years and has stood the testof time. Periodically, reports are generated about the possibilityof mercury toxicity from old existing silver fillings. To date,it is the opinion of the American Dental Association that thereis no substantial proof that dental amalgam poses any threat tothe safety of the dental public.
  
  
• Initially, the decayed tooth is excavated and all the decayis removed.
  
  
• The tooth is then shaped in a specific manner in order toaccept a silver filling.
  
  
• Finally, a band is placed around your tooth and the amalgamis condensed into the prepared tooth. The final filling is thencarved and adjusted to your bite.
  
  
• Once placed, it takes almost two (2) weeks for your new fillingto become fully hardened. You may, however, safely chew on itafter twenty-four (24) hours. But, please, chew carefully!
  
  
• New silver fillings can be sensitive to hot and cold liquidsand other foods for the first four to six weeks or in some specialcases, even longer. If the sensitivity should continue for anextended period of time or if the discomfort is extreme, callyour dentist so that he/she can evaluate the situation and prescribethe appropriate therapy.
  
  

• Sometimes, due to the effects of the local anesthesia, itis quite difficult to make sure that your bite is exactly right.If you feel any discomfort in chewing, call your dentist. A minoradjustment is usually all it takes to make you comfortable. Don'twait too long! Teeth can become quite sensitive if the biteis " high ". You can generate in excess of 40,000pounds per square inch when chewing on your back teeth. Fillingswhich have not had the appropriate amount of time to harden, orare " high ", cannot stand this kind of pressure andmay break.