Amalgam Dental Fillings In Creston, IA

Safe and Durable Metal Dental Fillings

At Buck Family Dentistry, we know a chipped tooth or a nagging cavity can put a damper on your smile’s confidence. Metal fillings, also known as dental amalgam fillings, are a reliable and proven solution to restore your teeth’s health and function.

With a long history of success, metal fillings are a durable and affordable way to get you back to flashing a confident and restored grin. Ready to reclaim your smile’s shine? Call today at 641-782-4747 to learn more about silver filling restorations with the best dentist in Creston, IA.

metal fillings

What Are Silver (Amalgam) Fillings?

Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, are a reliable and time-tested dental restoration material. They’re a durable mixture of metals, most commonly containing silver, copper, and tin, that dentists use to repair cavities and prevent further decay. When applied, the amalgam hardens to form a strong and long-lasting patch over the decayed area, protecting the tooth and restoring its functionality.

Benefits of Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for both patients and dentists:

  • Durability: One of the biggest strengths of amalgam fillings is their exceptional longevity. With proper care, amalgam fillings can last for well over 15 years, often exceeding the lifespan of composite fillings.
  • Cost-effective: Compared to other tooth restoration materials, amalgam fillings are a more affordable option. This can be a significant factor for patients looking for a cost-conscious solution.
  • Quick and Easy Placement: The properties of amalgam allow dentists to place the filling efficiently during a dental appointment. This can be beneficial for patients who prefer shorter procedures.
  • Resistance to Wear and Tear: Amalgam fillings are exceptionally strong and can withstand the pressure of chewing, making them a suitable choice for teeth subjected to heavy use.
woman vistiting the dentist
laser dental treatment

Candidacy for Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are a versatile restoration option, but certain factors may influence your dentist’s recommendation:

  • Location of the Cavity: Due to their metallic color, amalgam fillings might be less suitable for cavities on very visible front teeth where aesthetics are a major concern. For these cases, tooth-colored composite fillings may be preferred.
  • Severity of the Cavity: For deep or large cavities, amalgam fillings offer superior strength and durability compared to composite fillings.
  • Patient Preference and Medical History: Some patients may have concerns about the mercury content in amalgam fillings. While the FDA considers them safe, your dentist can discuss all options and materials to ensure you feel comfortable with your choice.
  • Cost Considerations: If cost is a major factor, amalgam fillings are generally the more affordable option.

During a consultation, Dr. Buck will examine your teeth, assess the cavity’s location and severity, and discuss your needs and preferences to determine if amalgam or composite fillings are the right choice.

Placing Amalgam Dental Fillings

Numbing the Area

Comfort is a priority! Dr. Buck will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth receiving the filling. This ensures a painless procedure and allows you to relax during the treatment. We also offer sedation dentistry options to address dental anxiety.

Removing the Decay

Using a dental drill with a fine tip, the dentist will carefully remove the decayed tooth structure. This ensures all the compromised material is eliminated to prevent further health problems, and create a clean foundation for the filling.

Cleaning and Shaping the Cavity

Once the decay is removed, the dentist will thoroughly clean the area to remove any remaining bacteria or debris. They will then shape the cavity to ensure the amalgam filling fits securely and restore the tooth’s proper form.

Placing the Amalgam Filling

The dentist will meticulously prepare the amalgam filling material. This typically involves mixing liquid mercury with a powdered metal alloy to create a moldable compound. The amalgam is then placed in small increments into the prepared cavity.

Packing, Sculpting, and Hardening

With careful pressure and specialized tools, Dr. Buck will pack the amalgam-filling material into the cavity. They will meticulously sculpt the filling to restore the tooth’s original shape and ensure a proper bite. Once positioned, the amalgam hardens relatively quickly, forming a strong and stable restoration.

After the amalgam hardens, the dentist will use polishing tools to smooth and refine the filling’s surface. This ensures a comfortable fit and prevents any irritation to your tongue or cheek.

Caring for Amalgam Fillings

These dental filling materials are known for their longevity, but proper oral hygiene practices are essential to maximize their lifespan:

  • Brushing and Flossing: Maintain a consistent routine of brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles that can contribute to decay around the filling.
  • Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings for your dentist to monitor the health of your fillings and identify any potential issues early on.
  • Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Chewing on hard candies, ice, or other hard objects can put excessive stress on your fillings and potentially cause them to crack or chip.
  • Maintain a Balanced Diet: Limit sugary foods and drinks that can promote tooth decay and compromise the integrity of your fillings and healthy tooth structure.
  • Inform Your Dentist of Changes: If you experience any sensitivity, pain, or chipping around your amalgam fillings, be sure to inform Dr. Buck right away for a prompt evaluation.
woman brushing her teeth
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