What Is Used Instead of Mercury for Fillings in the Teeth?

Traditionally, dentists have used amalgam or silver fillings, which contain mercury, to restore natural teeth health and prevent further decay. However, there are alternatives to silver fillings. These alternatives can achieve the same treatment goal, but with a more aesthetic look.

Significance

• Materials called fillings are used to replace decayed portions of your tooth. Fillings can also be used to repair broken or cracked teeth.

Function

• Fillings conserve your natural tooth.

Filling options

• Tooth-colored fillings are made of resin and can be mixed to match your natural tooth color. Thus, these fillings are invisible.

Other options

• In addition to tooth-colored fillings, you can also choose from gold, porcelain and a glass material combination of composite resin fillings. Of course, silver amalgam which consists of tin, zinc, silver and copper is still an option.

Considerations

• The location of the tooth which needs to be filled, cost of filling material and the extent of decay may determine which fillings you and your dentist agree to use.