Amalgam Fillings in Wilmington and Seaford, DE

Please note: Our Wilmington and Seaford dental offices may not offer amalgam fillings. However, we’re happy to provide more information or discuss alternative dental restorations. Call our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to learn more.

Reliable Solutions for Cavities at Brown and Baran Family Dentistry

Amalgam fillings, often referred to as silver fillings, have been a trusted option in dental care for over a century. Known for their durability and affordability, they remain a choice for restoring damaged teeth, despite newer alternatives gaining popularity. Many patients in Wilmington, Seaford, and the surrounding Delaware communities still have amalgam restorations in place.

At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, we provide a full spectrum of dental services to meet your unique needs. While we don’t offer amalgam fillings, we specialize in composite dental fillings for a more natural look. Call our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to learn more.

What Are Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam fillings are a type of dental restorative material made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This combination creates a robust and long-lasting filling capable of withstanding the chewing forces of posterior teeth.

Composition of Amalgam Fillings:

• Mercury: ~50%
• Silver: ~22–32%
• Tin: ~14%
• Copper: ~8–12%
• Trace amounts of other metals

Benefits of Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings have stood the test of time for several reasons:

• Durability: These dental fillings are highly resistant to wear and can last for decades with proper care.
• Affordability: Amalgam is a cost-effective option compared to some alternative dental restorations.
• Strength: They can handle heavy chewing loads, making them ideal for molars.
• Ease of Placement: Dentists can place amalgam fillings efficiently, making them a practical option for patients.

Drawbacks of Amalgam Fillings

Like all dental treatments, amalgam fillings come with some limitations:

• Aesthetic Concerns: Their silver appearance is noticeable and may not match the natural tooth color.
• Expansion and Contraction: Amalgam fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to tooth fractures over time.
• Mercury Content: While considered safe by organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) and World Health Organization (WHO), concerns about mercury exposure remain.
• Environmental Impact: Improper disposal of amalgam waste can contribute to environmental mercury contamination.

Placing Amalgam Fillings

1. Preparation of the Tooth: The process includes removal of decayed or damaged tooth structure, tooth isolation to keep it dry, tooth etching, and application of bonding agent. 
2. Mixing and Placement of Amalgam: We’ll mix the dental amalgam material and then pack the mixture into the prepared cavity.
3. Condensation and Carving: Your dentists will properly condense the amalgam to ensure good adaptation. Carving and shaping the filling to resemble the natural tooth anatomy.
4. Final Polishing: Smoothing and polishing the filling to minimize rough edges and enhance comfort.

Are Amalgam Fillings Safe?

The safety of dental amalgam has been debated for years. Here’s what experts say:

• Mercury Vapor Release: Amalgam fillings release trace amounts of mercury vapor, especially during chewing or brushing. However, this is well below the safety thresholds set by health authorities.
• Health Risks: Studies, including those by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the European Commission, indicate that amalgam fillings pose minimal risk to overall health for most individuals.
• Exceptions: Those with heightened sensitivity to mercury or metal allergies may need alternative restorations like composite resin fillings.

If you need a filling replaced, contact Brown and Family Dentistry today at our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.

Replacing Amalgam Fillings

You may consider replacing amalgam fillings for several reasons:

• Cosmetic Preferences: Upgrade to tooth-colored composite fillings for a more natural appearance.
• Damage or Wear: If a filling is cracked, broken, or leaking, it may need replacement.
• Mercury Concerns: Although safe, some patients choose a replacement for peace of mind.

Note: The removal process may temporarily increase exposure to mercury vapor, so it’s essential to consult a skilled dentist for safe replacement.

Amalgam Filling Alternatives

Modern dental materials have made alternatives like composite resin fillings and ceramic filling restorations more appealing. These options not only blend seamlessly with your natural teeth but also avoid the use of mercury.

Costs of Amalgam Fillings

The average cost of an amalgam filling ranges from $50 to $150 per tooth, depending on factors like cavity size and practice location. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, making it an accessible option for many patients.