What is an Amalgam Filling?
There has been great debate in the public about the materials we use to fill teeth that have decay (cavities). There has been a movement away from amalgam fillings (metal) due to the concern for its mercury content and the health hazards a leaking filling might cause. Not to mention the appearance of the silver fillings are not the most esthetic and today patients want a solution that is both esthetic and durable. While there isn’t any concrete data to verify the toxicity of this material, many providers such as myself have chosen to not use this material due to an alternative material that is more natural-looking and just as strong.
What About Natural-Looking Fillings?
This material is called the composite resin or “white filling”. The early composite fillings were prone to leakage and breakage due to weak compressive strengths. Today, the material has been engineered to have excellent strength and great durability against wear. Not to mention, it is available in a multitude of shades that are made to match the color of a person’s tooth for a natural, life-like result.
What is BPA? Should I Be Concerned?
Just like its amalgam counterpart, even composite material has come under fire lately due to the presence of BPA (Bisphenol-A), which is found in many consumer plastics products and food packaging. There is concern about hormonal effects this material may cause. Short-term studies show that the usage has insignificant results, but there is a lack of any true long-term studies to date. The American Dental Association (www.ADA.org) confirms this as well and states they are safe in dental materials.
What Do You Use Dr. Asinmaz?
To err on the side of caution, we use only BPA-free composite materials for fillings and bondings. We are proud to continuously be at the forefront of dental technology and more importantly, to show concern for the well-being of our patients.