Are you tired of looking at your old silver fillings in the mirror? If so, replacing them is as easy as a simple trip to your Ankeny dentist, Dr. Foust, who offers natural, tooth-colored alternatives to old metal fillings. Furthermore, she can help you understand how those old fillings might actually be doing more harm to your teeth than good.
Amalgam Contains Mercury
The clinical term for old silver fillings is amalgam, a metal that contains small amounts of mercury. The FDA has stated that the amount is not enough to be considered harmful, though cautionary warnings are made for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under six years of age.
Changing Shape
An unfortunate quality of metal fillings is that they tend to change shape due to variances in temperature. Over time, these contractions and expansions can lead to tooth fracture, infection below the filling, and pain.
The Alternative: Composite Resin
Your Ankeny dentist offers fillings made from composite resin, a resilient plastic material. Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth by permeating its porous structure, thus eliminating the chance of fracture. Additionally, these fillings are tooth colored, giving you a metal-free, aesthetically-pleasing smile.
If your old metal fillings are a constant cause of concern, schedule an appointment with Dr. Foust so that she can fully inform you of your replacement options. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling (515) 965-0230. Our office treats patients in Ankeny, Polk City, Bondurant, Elkhart, Alleman, and the surrounding communities.
