{"id":479,"date":"2025-07-07T21:36:49","date_gmt":"2025-07-07T21:36:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marveldentalcare.com\/blog\/?p=479"},"modified":"2025-08-05T21:42:39","modified_gmt":"2025-08-05T21:42:39","slug":"out-with-the-old-why-you-should-replace-your-metal-filling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marveldentalcare.com\/blog\/2025\/07\/07\/out-with-the-old-why-you-should-replace-your-metal-filling\/","title":{"rendered":"Out With the Old: Why You Should Replace Your Metal Filling"},"content":{"rendered":"
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In the past, you may have seen people fill their cavities<\/a> with a metal material known as amalgam. However, you may notice that they aren\u2019t around as much! That\u2019s because dentists use tooth-colored composite resin as a discreet way to repair decay. They are just as reliable as their metal cousin, but if you have an amalgam filling, should you replace it? Keep reading to learn more about this older treatment so you feel confident about your decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Are Amalgam Fillings?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This type of restoration is made from an even mix of different metals (either silver, tin, or gold) and mercury. The latter material was used as a binding agent that made it easier for your dentist to mold and press into cavities. It then rapidly hardens and gives you a dental treatment that is very durable against everyday biting and chewing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are Amalgam Fillings Harmful to My Health?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The good news is that amalgam fillings don\u2019t have much risk of causing harm to you! Recent studies have shown a link between this type of restoration and mercury levels in your body, but you don\u2019t ingest enough to cause significant side effects. That being said, some vapor gets released that can be harmful to certain patients. Here is more about who is affected:<\/p>\n\n\n\n