Before modern technology and science studying the links between dental procedures and overall health, it was common practice to use mercury-based fillings.

You might have heard these called amalgam or silver fillings and they have been used to treat cavities for 150 years.

They are made up of several materials, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury and have always been popular because their durability, affordability, and how quickly dentists are able to place them.

Although these fillings are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA), Dr. Tostado doesn’t use any amalgam in his practice because:

• Even small levels of mercury may affect some patients as mercury is a known toxin.
• They are very noticeable because of the color.
• They may fracture easily because they expand and contract with temperature changes.

So what does he use instead?

Composite fillings are the new standard in our office and many across the world.

Composite fillings:

• Don’t contain any mercury.
• Can be colored to match your natural tooth structure so composite restorations won’t show when you smile.
• Are bonded to your tooth for a stronger and tighter seal than that made with metal fillings.
• Won’t cause sensitivity, unlike metal restorations.
• Are more conservative by nature so they leave more of your natural tooth structure intact than metal fillings do.

As you can see, there’s more to choosing filling material than just a preference of color.

If you want to avoid amalgam fillings and have other preferences that put your whole-body health first, we recommend seeing a holistic dentist.

 

Dr. Tostado is a holistic dentist who hasn’t used amalgam fillings in his practice in many years.

He and the team stay up to date on current research to always put the patient’s health first.