Amalgam Filling – Definition, Risks & Alternatives
An amalgam filling is a dental restoration made from a metal alloy containing mercury. It is one of the oldest and most durable filling materials used in dentistry.
Things worth knowing about "Amalgam filling"
An amalgam filling is a dental restoration made from a metal alloy containing mercury. It is one of the oldest and most durable filling materials used in dentistry.
What Is an Amalgam Filling?
An amalgam filling (also called a silver filling or dental amalgam) is a type of tooth restoration made from a mixture of metals. The main component is mercury, which is combined with other metals such as silver, tin, and copper to form a pliable material. Once placed into the prepared tooth cavity, it hardens into a strong and durable filling. Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry for over 150 years and were long considered the standard material for treating dental cavities caused by tooth decay.
Composition of Dental Amalgam
Dental amalgam typically consists of the following metals:
- Mercury (Hg): approximately 50% of the total weight
- Silver (Ag): approximately 22–32%
- Tin (Sn): approximately 14%
- Copper (Cu): approximately 8%
- Small amounts of other metals such as zinc or indium
Once the filling has hardened, the mercury is chemically bound within the alloy and releases only very small amounts of mercury vapor under normal conditions.
Clinical Applications
Amalgam fillings are primarily used to restore cavities in the back teeth (premolars and molars), which are subject to high chewing forces. The material is especially resistant to mechanical stress, making it well-suited for load-bearing areas of the mouth.
Advantages of Amalgam Fillings
- Durability: Amalgam fillings can last 10–20 years or more.
- Strength: Highly resistant to chewing pressure, ideal for posterior teeth.
- Ease of placement: Less sensitive to moisture than some alternative materials.
- Cost-effectiveness: Generally less expensive than composite or ceramic restorations.
Disadvantages and Risks
- Aesthetics: The silver-grey color is visible and does not match natural tooth color.
- Mercury content: Health concerns regarding the release of small amounts of mercury vapor, particularly during chewing or grinding.
- Environmental impact: Amalgam is considered an environmental pollutant; proper disposal is legally regulated in many countries.
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, contact allergies to amalgam components may occur.
Health Assessment and Current Regulations
The World Health Organization (WHO) and most dental associations consider amalgam fillings safe for the general population. The amount of mercury released remains below established health thresholds in healthy adults. However, authorities recommend avoiding amalgam in certain at-risk groups:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Children under 15 years of age
- Individuals with kidney disease
- Individuals with known mercury allergy
In 2024, the European Union decided to ban the use of dental amalgam from 2025 onward to reduce environmental mercury pollution. This decision is aligned with the Minamata Convention, an international treaty aimed at reducing mercury emissions worldwide.
Alternatives to Amalgam Fillings
Modern alternatives to amalgam include:
- Composite resin fillings: Tooth-colored plastic-based fillings that are aesthetically pleasing and well-tolerated.
- Ceramic inlays: High-quality, long-lasting, and tooth-colored restorations.
- Glass ionomer cement: Suitable for smaller fillings; releases fluoride to help protect the tooth.
Removal of Amalgam Fillings
The removal of an intact and functioning amalgam filling is generally not recommended by dental associations, as drilling out the filling releases significantly more mercury than leaving it in place. If removal is desired for medical or aesthetic reasons, it should be performed by an experienced dentist using appropriate protective measures, such as rubber dams and high-volume suction.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Mercury and Health: Dental amalgam. Geneva: WHO Press, 2021. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mercury-and-health
- European Commission – Regulation (EU) on the restriction and phase-out of dental amalgam, 2024. Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/mercury/
- FDI World Dental Federation – Policy Statement on Dental Amalgam. FDI, 2021. Available at: https://www.fdiworlddental.org
Most purchased products
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®The latest entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryOrthognathic surgery
Risedronate
Segmental fracture
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Calorie content
Cologne list
Related search terms: Amalgam filling