Dental Amalgam | Brandon FL
Dental Amalgam is a commonly used dental filling that has been used for over 150 years. It is a mixture of mercury with at least one other metal. Amalgam has many advantages over other restorative material, such as low cost, strength, durability, and bacteriostatic effects.Amalgam is used in dentistry for a number of reasons. It is relatively easy to use and manipulate during placement; it remains soft for a short time so it can be packed to fill any irregular volume, and then forms a hard compound. Amalgam possesses greater longevity than other direct restorative materials, such as composite. On average, most amalgam restorations serve for 10 to 12 years, whereas resin-based composites serve for about half that time. However, with recent improvements in composite material science and a better understanding of the technique-sensitivity of placement, it should be noted that this difference is decreasing.
There are circumstances in which composite (white fillings) serves better than amalgam; when amalgam is not indicated, or when a more conservative preparation would be beneficial, composite is the recommended restorative material. These situations would include small occlusal restorations, in which amalgam would require the removal of a more sound tooth structure, as well as in “enamel sites beyond the height of contour.”
The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs has concluded that both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration.
Raulerson Dental Associates, PA
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I recently had my first appointment for an amalgam filling at Raulerson Dental Associates with Dr. Alonso. Many years ago I had a bad experience in a dentist's office and as a result I am always afraid, sometimes to the point of tears, each time I go to the dentist! That being said, I was of course nervous and told Anna, the dental assistant, what a coward I was and why. She was so understanding and compassionate, that it put me at ease before Dr. Alonso even arrived. Additionally, Dr. Alonso was also so friendly and compassionate that I was actually even able to relax a bit, which for me is unheard of. He understood my fear and took special care to make sure that I would have a calm and painfree appointment. His friendly nature and gentle manner allowed me to even be able to relax a bit. I can't thank Dr. Alonso and Anna enough for helping me to have a pleasant experience at the dentist. They are terrific and I will recommend them to everyone.
- Lynne W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have had a fear of going to the dentist my whole life. I had avoided the dentist for a very long time but finally went to see Dr. Raulerson after hearing such wonderful things about him. After the first visit with my, I felt completely at ease. I returned for a cleaning and a filling. I honestly wanted to go back....NOT me at all....but he is such an awesome man that I can say I am glad I went to the dentist!
- David C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was very anxious about the appointment, the dentist prescribed medication to put me at ease. I couldn't be happier with my experience. Highly recommended.
- Ellen R