Back in the “olden days”, the only viable solution for a cavity was a metal filling. These are traditionally black or silver in colour and otherwise known as dental amalgam. This liquid mercury and metal alloy filling has been around since 1904.

Do dentists still use black fillings?

Those fillings may have appeared silver or gray the day they were placed, but they certainly aren't silver anymore. They are black! Silver fillings, also known as “amalgam,” have been a staple of restorative dentistry for over 150 years and have served dentistry well in the past.

Why are tooth fillings black?

The silver (amalgam) fillings that were used for many years contained a mixture of metal alloy containing, silver, tin, copper and mercury. As with many metals that are exposed to a wet environment they will begin to break down and oxidize, often times turning black.

Do black fillings need replaced?

Unless your filling is noticeably damaged or has suffered suffer trauma or decay, there is practically little to no reason to have it replaced. Although at times you can be prone to tooth sensitivity due to the nature of the materials and color of dark fillings (Colors and materials conduct temperatures differently).

How long does a black filling last?

It may last a lifetime or need to be replaced in a few years. On average, a filling should last a decade or more. Some dentists offer warranties around 1 to 2 years on new fillings, provided that you have checkups every 6 months and take good care of your teeth at home.

Composite vs Amalgam

Can I get my black fillings replaced with white ones?

Many patients want more natural-looking white fillings, either as a cosmetic filling for a tooth or to replace old, dark amalgam fillings. This is understandable. White fillings can give your teeth a much more natural look.

Are composite fillings toxic?

Fortunately, composite resin fillings are, in general, less toxic than they ever have been. And many people enjoy that they're tooth-colored. Early on, composite resin often contained toxic components that leaked into the oral cavity and into the bloodstream.

Can mercury fillings leak?

Yes, mercury can leak from amalgam fillings as a vapor. However, according to the International Journal of Dentistry, mercury released from dental amalgam restorations does not contribute to systemic disease or systemic toxicological effects.

How do you know if your mercury filling is leaking?

If you notice that your teeth are darkening, it may be the result of the metal leaking out of the filling and into your tooth. You may also feel soreness, or notice that your filling can “give” under pressure. Both are symptoms of a failing amalgam filling.

Can mercury fillings make you sick?

Some people may have an allergy or sensitivity to mercury or other components (e.g., silver, copper, tin or zinc) of dental amalgam and may report or experience health effects, including allergic reactions and oral ulcers, as well as more generalized symptoms, after placement of an amalgam filling.

Do dentists use amalgam fillings anymore?

Currently, there are millions of amalgam dental fillings in use and they continue to be placed in dental schools, clinics and hospitals all over the world. They are considered safe and stable, yet their use continues to be debated, says dentist Nathan Janowicz, DMD.

Why is my new filling black?

If the discoloration is due to a leaking filling, dental decay will eventually develop. If left alone for too long, the tooth may need a root canal treatment or extraction. If the discolored filling is caused by staining, the filling will continue to darken and become more unsightly over time.

Can you get tooth decay under a filling?

Recurrent decay is tooth decay that forms under existing fillings and crowns because of leakage around the dental restorations. Constant pressure from chewing or stress from grinding and clenching can cause fillings to crack, chip or wear away. These problems leave gaps and allow bacteria to get under the filling.

When did they stop using mercury fillings in teeth?

In 2008, the American Dental Association, (ADA), announced that the use of mercury-silver, or amalgam, dental fillings has been banned in Sweden, Denmark and Norway.

What is the safest tooth filling material?

Fillings made from amalgam are fifty percent mercury, with other metals like copper, tin, and zinc that make up the rest. Amalgam or silver fillings have long been considered the best option for dental fillings because they are affordable and durable. In fact, they can last for years with proper care.

Are metal fillings safe for MRI?

After all, MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. Since some dental fillings contain metal, it seems like they could cause a problem in the machine. After all, magnets can move metal objects. Actually, dental fillings, even metal ones, are as safe as any non-metal material and are nothing to be concerned about.

How do you detox from mercury fillings?

The safest way to remove mercury amalgam fillings is the SMART Method, which includes:

1. A rubber dam to shield your mouth.
2. Disposable covering for hair and skin of patient and staff.
3. A HEPA filter and high-volume vacuum above patients.
4. Chlorella and/or activated charcoal to remove traces of mercury.

Do dentists get mercury poisoning?

Dental workers, including dentists, dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental students, dental instructional staff, and dental laboratory and sterilization technicians are all at risk of mercury exposure if they work with dental amalgam [2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15].

Should I get my mercury fillings removed?

If your metal fillings are worn, cracked, or if there is severe decay beneath the metal filling, then you should definitely get them removed. If your old fillings are fine, but you want to avoid the effects of mercury on your health, then you should get a mercury filling removal.

Can you have an MRI with mercury fillings?

A new study shows that magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) can release mercury from metal amalgam fillings. Attention is being given to the fact that high-powered MRIs can cause a very high release of mercury.

What do mercury fillings do to your body?

The effects of mercury-laden fillings are scary. These fillings are one of the top contributing causes to mercury poisoning. This can cause a wide range of problems, including tremors, insomnia, headaches, nerve damage, kidney problems, and respiratory failure.

What happens if you swallow a tooth filling?

Swallowed fillings generally pass harmlessly through your digestive system. Inhaled fillings, however, can cause serious infections and complications in your respiratory system.

How common is mercury poisoning from fillings?

It also is found in dental amalgam fillings. In sufficient quantity, mercury is known to be toxic to humans. Even so, scientific evidence, accumulated over decades, supports the view that there is no clinical evidence of mercury poisoning in people who have amalgam fillings in their mouths.

Is there arsenic in fillings?

Metal-amalgam fillings are made from mercury, silver, and other metals – all of which contain toxic compounds. Mercury is especially toxic, more so than cadmium, lead, or even arsenic. Some dentists that use metal-amalgam fillings claim that there is no toxicity due to the fact that the metals aren't in a gaseous form.

Do composite fillings release BPA?

Some composite resins (white fillings) today often contain the endocrine-disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA). This can be concerning as they are used in fillings for kids as well. The problem with BPA is its potential effect on the way a child's reproductive system and brain development.