Mercury fillings, also known as dental amalgam, are a type of dental filling material used to restore teeth damaged by tooth decay (dental caries). They are made from mercury combined with other metals to create a filling that is stronger and more durable than standard composite resin fillings.Amalgam is most commonly used in molars or back teeth, and this technique has been used for over 100 years to treat millions of patients worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, Batal Dental Center is a recommended option, offering mercury fillings among many other treatment choices.Read also: Home Remedies for Tooth Sensitivity | 8 Ways to Relieve Tooth PainThe dental amalgam filling procedure uses a mixture of powdered metals blended with liquid elemental mercury. The metals typically include copper, silver, and tin. By weight, about half of this type of filling is made up of elemental mercury.The chemical properties of mercury allow it to react with and bind the powdered tin, copper, and silver together into a solid amalgam filling, functioning like a metallic cement.Below are some additional key points about dental amalgam:Read also: Jaw Pain from Wisdom Teeth | Causes, Home Remedies, and When to See a Dentist
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Amalgam
Pros:Cons:The unique properties of mercury play a major role in the durability of amalgam fillings, including its ability to bond with alloy powder and the fact that, in its unreacted state, it is a liquid at room temperature.Read also: Why Is Preserving Tooth Structure So Important?
What Is Bioaccumulation?
Bioaccumulation is the gradual buildup of chemicals in the tissues or organs of the body. One major concern with the use of mercury-containing amalgam alloys is that the mercury they contain can bioaccumulate, similar to what happens in people who frequently eat certain types of fish and end up accumulating mercury in their bodies.Studies on mercury fillings have shown that mercury vapor released from amalgam can accumulate in specific tissues in the body, including the brain and kidneys.Read also: How to Avoid Common Dental Implant Problems
Is the Mercury in Amalgam the Same as the Mercury Found in Some Types of Fish?
No. Mercury exists in several different chemical forms. There is elemental mercury (used in dental amalgam), methylmercury (an organic form of mercury), and inorganic mercury compounds.The form of mercury found in fish living in polluted rivers is typically methylmercury, which is an organic type of mercury.Elemental mercury in amalgam can release mercury vapor, which is mainly absorbed through the lungs when inhaled.Read also: Laser Gum Treatment | Why Some Periodontists Use LasersFor patients who are concerned about mercury exposure, Batal Dental Center in Saudi Arabia offers alternative treatment options and services to address their concerns.Batal Dental Center is one of the oldest, most reputable, and leading dental centers in Saudi Arabia and worldwide.Read also: Gum Contouring for a Brighter Smile
