{"id":99,"date":"2023-08-24T13:23:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-24T13:23:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.whitepeakdental.com\/blog\/?p=99"},"modified":"2023-09-25T13:24:01","modified_gmt":"2023-09-25T13:24:01","slug":"why-to-replace-your-metal-fillings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.whitepeakdental.com\/blog\/why-to-replace-your-metal-fillings\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Replace Your Metal Dental Fillings?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you\u2019re of a certain age, you may have fillings made of metal amalgam. That\u2019s only natural \u2013 these were once the standard used by most qualified dentists. Given new evidence, though, you might want to switch them out. It\u2019s ultimately better to replace your metal fillings with tooth-colored models<\/a>. As for why that\u2019s the case, your Cottonwood Heights dentist can tell you more. So, here\u2019s a summary of metal fillings\u2019 cons and the pros of switching to tooth-colored ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Replace Your Metal Fillings?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yes, metal fillings are somewhat functional \u2013 they fill the spaces left by cavities and tooth infections. Even so, these kinds have noticeable and fairly serious downsides. These include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Metal Fillings are Toxic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many metal fillings include mercury, a material that\u2019s toxic to the human body. Consequently, using them can lead to severe health effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest scientific research supports this reality. In 2016, a University of Georgia study found that people with over eight metal fillings were at risk of \u201cmercury toxicity.\u201d Said condition occurs when mercury levels in your blood lead to brain, heart, kidney, and immune system damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Metal Fillings Cause Allergies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Aside from toxicity, metal fillings can also cause allergies in some patients. These are especially likely when the treatment material has mercury, copper, silver, or tin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The nature of a filling-related allergic reaction can vary. Their symptoms range from oral lesions (sores in the mouth) to skin rashes and itching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Metal Fillings Draw Attention<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As you might expect, metal fillings are eye-catching and gaudy. Their metallic surfaces don\u2019t blend well with adjacent teeth and draw unwanted attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of course, this problem can be somewhat managed. Back teeth with metal fillings aren\u2019t quite as noticeable. However, others will likely notice the shine from your tooth\u2019s metallic portion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Get Tooth-Colored Ones Instead?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Today, qualified dentists often rely on tooth-colored fillings. Unlike metal ones, they have prominent perks like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n