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Amalgam Fillings
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Dental fillings can repair teeth that have been compromised by mild to moderate tooth decay. For decades, amalgam has been used to strengthen and protect weakened teeth. Amalgam restorations are durable and long lasting, and they provide an affordable alternative to composite resin fillings. With proper care, amalgam fillings can last up to 15 years.

What Are Cavities?

Each tooth is made up of several layers: the enamel, dentin, and inner pulp chamber. Although enamel is the hardest tissue in the body, it is not invincible. Acid from plaque can erode enamel, and over time, small holes can develop. These are otherwise known as cavities.

Amalgam restorations are durable and long lasting, and they provide an affordable alternative to composite resin fillings.

Plaque is a combination of debris from food, bacteria, and saliva. Sugary foods and carbohydrates can encourage the growth of bacteria and cause more plaque to develop. As a result, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and a diligent oral hygiene regimen to reduce your risk of developing decay.

Types of Cavities

Cavities result from a buildup of plaque on the surface of the teeth.

Who Can Develop Cavities?

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has estimated that 92 percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have at least one cavity. Over time, wear and tear can result in chips or cracks in the teeth, which can weaken their structural integrity and harbor bacteria. However, cavities can also affect children. Primary teeth are more susceptible to decay, as the enamel is softer than that of adult teeth.

Detecting Cavities

Early stages of tooth decay are difficult to detect with the unaided eye. However, x-rays enable your dentist to identify even the smallest areas of concern. Signs of more advanced tooth decay include:
  • Ongoing dental sensitivity or pain
  • Discomfort when consuming hot or cold items
  • Visible holes on the surface of teeth
  • Areas of discoloration
Treating cavities in a timely fashion can protect you from more serious oral health issues, such as tooth loss.

Amalgam Fillings: The Basics

Amalgam fillings have been around for over a century. They are comprised of a mixture of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. This metal alloy is highly durable and can withstand the constant bite force of chewing. Amalgam fillings are more affordable than composite resin material and typically offer longer-lasting results.  However, it is important to note that metal fillings are highly visible. As a result, dentists typically use amalgam on molars.

A Comparison

Amalgam fillings are more durable than composite material, but they are also more visible.

Keep in mind that fillings are appropriate in cases of mild to moderate dental decay. More extensive tooth decay may require an inlay or onlay or a dental crown. If decay has penetrated to the innermost portion of the tooth, you may require root canal therapy to restore the remaining structure.

The Treatment Process

During the examination, your dentist can use special dental tools to locate soft spots in the enamel. Your dentist may also request x-rays to identify early stages of decay. These images can also reveal the severity and extent of any decay that is present. Typically, the procedure can be performed on the same day as a consultation. The doctor can begin by administering a local anesthetic to numb the teeth and surrounding tissues. The compromised tissue will then be removed and the tooth will be carefully reshaped to accommodate the amalgam material. The dentist can then fill the cavity with amalgam. Once complete, you may be asked to bite down to ensure the material does not disrupt your occlusion. If necessary, your dentist can trim and re-contour the material.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Amalgam

Affordability and longevity are perhaps two of the greatest advantages of amalgam fillings. In addition, they are easy to maintain and can withstand the constant pressure of biting and chewing.  While amalgam fillings offer many great benefits, there are a few risks and disadvantages to consider. Amalgam:
  • Does not blend with natural enamel
  • Can cause the tooth to appear darker or gray
  • Does not bond as tightly to the tooth as composite resin
  • Can expand and contract under drastic temperature changes
  • Requires more tooth preparation and a larger amount of enamel removal
  • Can cause health concerns for patients with metal allergies
If you have concerns about amalgam material, you may wish to speak with your dentist about tooth-colored fillings.

Cary Prosthodontics

Cary Prosthodontics was founded in 1991 to provide the finest care to residents of Cary, Raleigh, Apex, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Morrisville, and surrounding areas. Our compassionate and caring prosthodontists are members of a number of professional associations, including:
  • American College of Prosthodontics (ACP)
  • Academy of Osseointegration (AO)
  • International Team for Implantology (ITI)
For more information about our services, contact our practice online or call (919) 858-8193 to speak to a member of our team today.

Visit Our Top-Rated Office

Are you looking for a dental practice you can trust to provide high-quality care? Our office is regularly rated five stars for the professional and friendly care we provide to our patients. To meet with one of our dentists and start your dental crown process, fill out our online form to request your consultation. You can also contact us by calling our office, serving Cary and Raleigh, NC, at: 

Call Us:(919) 588-4493
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The Proof is in Our patients

Linda D.
Staff is professional but caring, more so than other medical offices I’ve been to. When you walk in they actually greet you by name. They remember details of your previous visits, which speaks to a great office staff. And Dr. Lim does his best to see that you have a good outcome. Thanks to all!
Joyce Th.
Was treated with so much respect from the Dr. and staff. I’m a very nervous person when it comes to having dental work done I can’t help it, but they made feel so comfortable so easy to explain to let them know why I was there. I couldn’t wait to tell my family and friends. Thanks
Jennifer Y.
Yet again, an EXCELLENT visit with Dr Koffard. The staff are so thoughtful and welcoming, professional and knowledgeable and I really appreciate the lightness of the spirit in the entire office; not to mention Dr Koffards’ effervescent nature. Thank you again for taking such good care of me. Oh! And congratulations on the new, roomy office space! It’s beautiful!
Megan F.
My doctor and the nurse were absolutely amazing . i have bad anxiety when it comes to mouth operations and they walked me through every step, everything was super quick and easy. I wish there was another way to thank the ladies who worked on me bc i have never been so comfortable.
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Our Office

1400 Crescent Green Ste 215, Cary, NC 27518

Monday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Tuesday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Wednesday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Thursday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Friday

Closed

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1400 Crescent Green Ste 215, Cary, NC 27518

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Our office will be closed from December 24 to January 6th for the holiday season. We open at 7:30am on January 6th.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency during this time, please call our office with the number below and you will be routed to one of our professionals. We look forward to seeing everyone when we reopen on January 6th!
Call Us:(919) 588-4493