I want to replace an existing amalgam filling: What are my options?

Dental amalgam is the silver metal that has been used to repair dental decay for decades … however, a safe alternative made from plastic has been developed that is rapidly becoming the standard for cavity correction. Mercury free dentistry is now available thanks to a tooth colored solution known as composite resin.
There are circumstances where an amalgam filling requires replacing … additional decay in a previously repaired tooth, a broken filling, or the tooth itself experiences a crack. Under any of these circumstances, the size of the filling may be considered before determining treatment. Options include another filling, a dental crown, or tooth extraction.
A holistic dentist will take into consideration the overall health of the patient, not just oral concerns. So when determining the best way to pursue dental corrections, a review of current health conditions will be discussed. [pullquote]In the case of removing an existing amalgam filling, your dentist will follow the precautions necessary to guarantee your safety.[/pullquote]
In the case of removing an existing amalgam filling, your dentist will follow the precautions necessary to guarantee your safety. These include providing the appropriate barriers and vapor containment. The amalgam filling removed will be stored for proper disposal.
The American Dental Association has deemed the use of amalgam safe for dental decay repair; however, amalgam is made from a silver metal that contains mercury. The content of mercury presents concerns which led to the creation of one alternative repair, a tooth colored plastic made from resin. A standard amalgam filling can be replaced by this completely safe plastic which can be color matched to the tooth making this repair practically invisible.
When an already repaired tooth incurs further decay, the amalgam can be removed … however, some type of crown (an onlay, inlay, or full crown) may provide the integrity the tooth needs to stay viable.
When a tooth cracks or breaks, a full crown can be placed to salvage the tooth. If the nerve of the tooth has sustained any injury, endodontic therapy (root canal) may be needed. Extracting the tooth is usually the only other option. With root canal therapy the contents of the canals are removed. Once a tooth emerges, the nerve no longer is needed to sustain the tooth.
To learn more about mercury free dentistry and other treatment options, contact the office of Dr. Philip Kozlow at 972-458-2464 today.