Amalgam fillings are widely used but there are inefficiencies and hazards associated with them that cause serious complications. A dentist in Willowbrook will be able to help you with alternatives to help you avoid these complications.

Fortunately, there are alternatives. These alternatives can be easy on your wallet and put the safety of your teeth first. Amalgam fillings can lead to many health problems, such as dental decay, sensitivity, black or brown spots on the teeth, pain in the tooth sockets and jaw area, infections in the gums or cheek area, and even death.

Let us now see the real problems with amalgam fillings.

Amalgams break teeth

One of the problems with amalgam fillings is that they can break your teeth. When you chew, an abnormal amount of pressure is placed on your teeth. And when a tooth is filled with amalgam, this pressure can cause the tooth to fracture easily and on a more frequent basis. Do not overlook these breaks since they can be a sign that there is something wrong with the way in which the teeth are being treated.

Amalgam fillings require more tooth removal

Amalgam fillings require more tooth removal. This is because the dentist has to remove the enamel layer of the tooth and drill a hole in it to hold the filling. That means that the dentist will have to remove more of your tooth, which can lead to a wide variety of dental problems.

Amalgam fillings can cause a reaction

Those who are sensitive to amalgam fillings have reported reactions after they have been installed. The metal in amalgams can cause the mouth area to become inflamed, and it can also cause an allergic reaction that leads to ulcers that form on the lining of the cheeks, gums, and throat.

Amalgam fillings leak, causing recurrent decay

Another problem with amalgam fillings is that they can leak. Specifically, the mercury in the filling can leak out, which will cause further problems. That is because the leaking mercury will not only pollute the surrounding area but it will also weaken your immune system and make you more likely to suffer from other infections like sinusitis.

Amalgam is ugly

There is no doubt that amalgam fillings are unattractive. They can turn your teeth black or dark brown, and those spots will be impossible to remove. In addition, they can also discolor your gums. Moreover, the color of the filling can change over time, especially if you are a smoker.