Should You Remove and Replace Old Metal (Amalgam) Fillings with New Tooth Colored Fillings?

A mouthful of metal could damage your long term health. Mercury is a poisonous toxin; however, it is used in millions of dental fillings each year. Research suggests that, if metal fillings were proposed today, they would never be approved; yet mercury has been used by dentists for over 150 years. While it may not be practical to remove all metal fillings, health experts now recommend that you remove and replace old, cracked, or corroded metal fillings with new tooth colored composite fillings. You should also make sure than any new restorations are strictly tooth colored fillings. Tooth colored fillings are composed of a plastics and glass mixture. They look more natural, are more durable, and are more beneficial to your oral and overall health. Make your tooth colored filling appointment with Dr. Latner at Westside Dental Associates today. Dr. Latner prioritizes your good health. Westside Dental Associates is the leading restorative family dentistry of West Los Angeles, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista, and the surrounding areas.

What Are the Dangers of Old Metal (Amalgam) Dental Fillings?

While tooth colored fillings are metal free, amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals including silver, tin, and copper, with approximately 50% mercury by weight. It can release low levels of mercury vapor which can be inhaled. Over the past 20 years, mercury has been identified as an environmental hazard and linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and kidney, brain and nerve damage. Mercury doesn’t leave the body as waste. It can settle in soft tissues like the kidneys, brain, and other organs. Those who are allergic to metals (about 3% of people) may also develop mouth sores and skin rashes as a result of amalgam exposure. Most experts recommend that dental amalgam should be avoided altogether by pregnant women and children under the age of six.

West LA Tooth Colored Fillings Appointments

Don’t take chances with your health. Make an appointment with Dr. Latner at Westside Dental Associates for your new tooth colored fillings today. Dr. Latner and Westside Dental Associates protects the health of patients daily throughout West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista, and nearby communities.