Amalgam fillings
Silver fillings are made of amalgam – a mixture of mercury with silver, tin and sometimes copper. Amalgam fillings have a long successful history and can last for a considerable time. Amalgam fillings can darken teeth. There is no scientific evidence supporting the statement that amalgam fillings contribute to poor health.
In teeth with very large silver mercury fillings there is an increased risk of tooth fracture. Amalgam fillings do not add to the strength of a tooth. The tooth is essentially as strong as the remaining tooth structure. In these heavily filled teeth the unprotected parts of the teeth are prone to breaking away. It is often necessary to further protect these teeth by means of crowns or inlays.
What to expect.
It takes 24 hours after placement of the amalgam filling for it to be sufficiently set to withstand biting pressures. For this period refrain from chewing on the new fillings.The tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold liquids and foods for a few days. This sensitivity usually then settles down. Unfortunately in a few cases especially in deep fillings near the tooth nerve this may not happen. Indeed the pain may get progressively worse. This may be an indication that root canal therapy is needed.
It may be difficult for us to make sure that the bite is absolutely correct due to your mouth being numb. If you feel the bite is "high" arrange to come into the Dental Centre to have it adjusted. Teeth can become quite sensitive if the bite is too high.
