What is an Amalgam Filling?

Book an Appointment Call Now

December 15, 2017

Dental Amalgam, also known as Silver Filling material is a mixture of Mercury and Metal Alloy’s used to fill a hole in a tooth after decay has been removed by a dentist. Amalgam commonly consists of Mercury (50%), Silver (35%), Tin (13%), Copper (2%) and other trace metals like Zinc. Dental amalgams were first documented in a Tang Dynasty medical text written by Su Kung in 659 AD, and appeared in Germany around 1528. In the 1800s, amalgam became the dental restorative material of choice due to its low cost, ease of application, strength, and durability. Recently however, concern for appearance, environmental pollution, health, and the availability of improved, reliable, composite (white) filling materials have diminished its popularity. In particular, concerns about the toxicity of mercury have made its use increasingly controversial.

 

What is Mercury and why is it so toxic?

Mercury is a chemical element with symbol Hg and atomic number 80 (which is a pretty high number). It is commonly known as quicksilver. The reason that Mercury is so dangerous is that Mercury is the only metal that is liquid at standard temperature and pressure: in fact, there is no other metal that can remain liquid in a wider range of conditions. This is mostly due to the abnormal behavior of the electrons orbiting the atom and makes it one, of the only 5 elements, to be liquid in a normal state.

But the real dangerous property of mercury is its density. Mercury is 13.5 times denser than water. It’s liquid and gas forms are highly poisonous. When inhaled or ingested, Mercury can accumulate in the body, slowly degrading the membranes of important organs like the brain, nervous system, kidneys or liver. It can cause varying effects from eye irritation and vomiting to DNA and chromosomal damage. Mercury can be found naturally in the environment, present around the world as “Cinnabar”. Although it has always been released into the environment through normal weathering, the recent rise in its quantity on the globe has many people worried. Because it is not naturally found in food, there is a worry that we could be ingesting dangerous amounts of it simply as a result of the natural food chain, fish being the main concern.

Are Silver Mercury Fillings Safe?

In the “Directions for Use” literature that comes from the Amalgam Silver Filling manufacturer, Caulk/Dentsply, it has a listing of when the use of Amalgam is NOT indicated. The list is as follows:

  • In expectant mothers
  • In children under 6 years old
  • In contact with other metals
  • In patients with kidney problems
  • In patients with known allergies to Tin, Copper, Silver or Mercury

The warnings in the “Instructions for Use of Amalgam Silver Filling Material” by Caulk/Dentsply go on to state, that “Exposure to Amalgam can cause skin sensitization or other allergic reactions.“It also says “Do NOT swallow. If nausea or illness develops, seek medical attention immediately. Contact the Regional Poison Control Center immediately.” Lastly, it states “Mercury is toxic by vapor inhalation, avoid inhaling the vapor. Inhalation of vapors may cause varying degrees of damage to the affected tissue and also increased susceptibility to respiratory illness. This product may cause Neurotoxic (Nerve Damaging), Nephrotoxic (Kidney Damaging) or other serious health effects if inhaled or ingested”

Mercury Vapors coming off an Amalgam Silver Mercury filling Besides toxicity, what other problems do Silver Mercury Fillings have?

Other than toxicity, one of the main reasons why Amalgam with Mercury in it is such a poor material for filling a tooth is that it Expands on Heating and Contracts on Cooling.

When the Mercury in an Amalgam Silver filling expands when you put anything hot in your mouth, it pushes on the walls of the tooth spreading them apart. Then, when you drink a Cold liquid and the Mercury in your Amalgam Silver filling contracts, a gap will open up between the filling and the tooth. The bacteria in your mouth that cause decay can crawl into this gap and infect your tooth. Another problem with the constant expansion and contraction of your filling is that it puts stress on the walls of your tooth and can lead to fractures of your teeth.

There are so many other tooth colored; esthetic options available for filling your teeth, there really is no need to use this type of toxic filling material in your or your loved ones mouths. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Gorbatov to discuss all of the white, tooth colored options for filling your teeth, click HERE.

Original article source:  drtamura.com/services/general-dentistry/is-the-mercury-in-silver-fillings-toxic/

Share With Your Friends:

Back to Press Center

Testimonials

Fast service and the best staff! I highly recommend this Dentist. I've been going to this Dentist for 2 years and I travel far now just to come here. They... read more

Christine (Orlando, FL)

A Center for Dental Excellence is fantastic. They’re understanding and extremely competent. Not only is the dental care itself excellent, but their quality of caring about their patients is unparalleled.... read more

Haylee J (Aberdeen, FL)

I feel I have the best care possible under Dr. Gorbatov and his team. His work is top quality and because of him I know my teeth and the health... read more

Alex P. (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

I had a great experience with Dr. Dmitry Gorbatov. He was able to save my tooth from getting a root canal. All the staff was really nice, and attentive. I... read more

Arthur R. (North Miami Beach, FL)

Great service Knowledgeable doctor Friendly staff 5+ stars!! Someone hacked into my account and gave false review. Not me!!! Outstanding service @ Dr Gorbatov Dentistry!!!!

Ellen Zlobinskiy (Hallandale Beach, FL)

Entire office & staff is very accommodating and attentive to all your needs. The dentist was very nice and professional and really took the time to explain to me everything... read more

Tiffany D. (Hollywood, FL)

Had a great experience with Dr.Gorbatov, he is really professional and doing great his job always with a smile)) Definitely recommending him

Tanya Kusiumova (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

Benjamin R. (West Pam Beach, FL)

I know Dr. Gorbatov and use his service already for 15 years since we moved to Florida. He is an amazing doctor capable to do all types of dental and... read more

Eugenia Aulov-Volchek (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

S u p e r b ...Immaculate dentistry! I was impressed with a GREAT attention to details! His work is truly an ART and priceless! Everyone in the office is... read more

Gordana Skracic (Aventura, FL)

Very professional nice staff great service.

(Aventura, FL)

I want to say that I never write reviews. However I have to say that this dentist center is amazing! From the moment you enter you feel like family. Everyone... read more

Lisa Jerkins (Wellington, FL)

I was very fortunate to find Dr. Gorbatov right when I had a major issue with an old crown that fell off and led to a major infection just a... read more

Octavian Miron (Aventura, FL)

I have been with the dentist for a few years now and love the care I receive. You are taken care of from the front desk person, through your visit!... read more

Juan Rodriguez (Greenacres, FL)

Wonderful service

Noel Reyes (Lake Worth, FL)

Very professional office. Good dentist.Clean dental office

Anna K. (Hollywood, FL)

Loved coming here, very nice Doctor and wonderful experience with a great cleaning. Receptionist is awesome too.

Lina Lobo (Greenacres, FL)

I finally found a great dentist who does its all, root canals, caps, and implants. I needed major work on my mouth all at once, although it was expensive because... read more

Diane O’Brocki (Loxahatchee, FL)

I’ve been coming here for almost 10 years now and can surely say that the customer service provided is one of the best in town. Make sure to be nice... read more

Hype Kay (Royal Palm Beach, FL)

This is the Best Dental Office I ever was. Great personality, gentle touch and perfectionism in all aspects of cosmetic dentistry. Thank you Dr. Gorbatov for creating Smile I always... read more

Yuriy Gorobets (Hallandale Beach, FL)

High-level professionals. Thank you, Dr. Gorbatov. I'm going to recommend your clinic to my friends. With best regards!

Vlad Shishko (Sunny Isles, FL)

I had been looking for a dentist for a few months and I was referred to Dr. Gorbatov and I can certainly see why. I've always been a little skeptical... read more

Jazlyne Jimenez (Hallandale Beach, FL)

This is IT!!!! As good as it gets!!! If you want a celebrity smile call his number.

Jacob F. (Miami)

This is the best dentist in the world who really cares about each and every patient and makes your smile look perfect! After visiting the new office you will be... read more

Kseniia Dursinova (Sunny Isles, FL)

I've been looking for a good dentist since So. FL lacks them. Not anymore, great professional services, and best of all, you will find a personal touch. You will truly... read more

ML GG (Hollywood, FL)

Great staff I was nervous but they made me feel at ease. I am confident that they will give me the smile that I airways wanted. The receptionist personality is... read more

Uuggh uggh (West Palm Beach, FL)

The receptionist goes above and be on for the customers. Excellent service the doctor treats you with all his attention feels like I’m right at home and explain everything detailed.... read more

Sophie Garcia (Royal Palm Beach, FL)

I have lived and worked all over North America. One of the greatest challenges of relocating is finding the best dental practice. "Center For Dental Excellence" was recommended to me... read more

Gregory Sutton (Wellington, FL)

Jessica at the front has helped me tremendously and the Dr has made the large amount of work that I have had done painless

Celeste Clossin (Wellington, FL)

I have been going to this office now for the past 3 years. From Jessica working the front, to having my teeth cleaned, and both Drs. working on my teeth,... read more

Joanne Purdy (Wellington, FL)

Good quality office, and dental work.

Igor Gonchar (Hallandale Beach, FL)

Awesome service. Highly recommended

Iliana Gonzalez (Royal Palm Beach, FL)

I've been looking for a good dentist since So. FL lacks them. Not anymore, great professional services, and best of all, you will find a personal touch. You will truly... read more

ML GG (Aventura, FL)

The dentist fit me in last minute when my normal dentist was unavailable I tried them on the recommendation of a friend after I broke a veneer and had 3... read more

Mark Krawiec (Hollywood, FL)

Love Dr. Gorbatov! He is skilled, professional, thorough, nice, and always keeps me comfortable. The assistants and office staff are great too. I highly recommend Dr. Gorbatov!

fannabl (Hallandale Beach, FL)

I went to the office to get teeth cleaning! The receptionist was overwhelmed with something, but she was the sweetest. My dental hygienist did great job, made sure I feel... read more

Elizaveta C. (Miami, FL)

I would like say that this office is at the TOP of my list. The staff is awesome, it is very clean and you made at home as soon as... read more

Jazlyne Jimenez (Lake Worth, FL)

Hello, Dr.Gorbatov is truly THE BEST ,so please just forget about all the rest! I truly witnessed MIRACLE IN MAKING!!! My sister now have a MOVIE STAR SMILE! Thank you... read more

Valnea Del Bianco (Hallandale Beach, FL)

I have been Dr. Gorbatov's patient for over 8 years and have always received excellent service. The facility and staff are wonderful. I would highly recommend A Center for Dental... read more

Teresita Camacho (Lake Worth, FL)

Thank you Dr. Gorbatov for the great experience, your gentle touch and quality work you have done on my teeth. I have been very pleased with your professional, yet personable... read more

Irina D. (Port Orange, FL)

I always have a great experience when I come here, the staff is wonderful and I would not change my dental office for anything in the world.. Jessica is amazing... read more

Shiloh Robinson (Wellington, FL)

My experience was great.Doctor is very professional.I really recommend.The best place to go for your dental.

Olga Meverden (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

First time here the staff and Dr were so informative and professional thank you for making my experience run so smooth ?

Evelyn Garcia (Greenacres, FL)

From the minute I walked in the dr Gorbatov office till the and of my treatment I was pleasantly surprised with professionalism and care of Dr and his staff. I... read more

Anna (Hollywood, FL)

Love the staff and great service!!

Rebeca Saravia (Dania Beach, FL)

Thank you personally and from the bottom of my heart for the kindness and consideration you showed my mom, Catherine the other day! ?

Patrizia Rondelli (Hollywood, FL)

I switched my dentist because i was dissatisfied with their service and decided to go to Dr.Gorbotov's office for my wisdom tooth extraction. I never thought I would see the... read more

Oleg Solovey (Sunny Isles, FL)

I take my 90yr great grandmother to this office and they are so kind and she feels so loved here. Every visit she receives excellent service and quality work. Thank... read more

Farron Ann (Wellington, FL)

The atmosphere in this office is beyond believe, I instantly felt comfortable with Dr Dimitiri and his assistant Yuri. They work great together. I had 6 veneers put in and... read more

Ruslan Gahramanov (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

Absolutely amazing. Jess and Jessica at the front made me feel so comfortable and helped me conquer my fear of the dentist. The office is clean and welcoming I completely... read more

Hayley Kaplan (Wellington, FL)

When I first found this office I was terrified of the dentist and I had constant anxiety when seeing dentists. Now I look forward to cleanings and my anxiety is... read more

Hayley Kaplan (Wellington, FL)

What a great experience at the dentist!! I wish I had found these guys years ago, maybe I wouldn't be so afraid of the dentist. Thought I needed a root... read more

Craig Balsam (Wellington, FL)

The dentist is very friendly and gentle during procedures.

Sofie M (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

Excellent Service! Friendly, Clean and Prompt!

Deidre Reid-Thomas (West Palm Beach, FL)

Since me and my wife moved to Florida from Nj several years ago, we were looking for good dentist, the one we can trust. We tried a few but were... read more

Tatiana Lapushchik (Hollywood, FL)

I have been going to Dr Gorbatov at A Center For Dental Excellence for many years now and their use of "Excellence" isn't just a marketing ploy and they definitely... read more

Lawrence F. (Lake Worth, FL)

Everyone in the office is super amazingly fantastic! They're informative and understanding. Dr. Gorbatov has done great work on my teeth! The dental hygienist has been a charm, makes every... read more

John Kern (Hollywood, FL)

Dr. Gorbatov is an excellent dentist. I went to several other dentist and they all wanted to do a root canal, but Dr. Gorbatov was able to save my tooth.... read more

Arthur Rubinovich (Sunny Isles, FL)

No teeth fell out mid cleaning. 10/10

Erik Purdy (West Palm Beach, FL)

Very helpful and amazing response time! Found them on Instagram and I'm happy I did!

Cece Esk (Hollywood, FL)

Had an amazing experience. Staff was very caring and nice. They are very honest

Billie Selinsky (Wellington, FL)

Very impressed with Dr. Gorbatov's ethics. He truly cared about my situation, the fact that I was from another city and had limited time off of work to address my... read more

Tatiana Safonova (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

Excellent service , friendly & professional !!!

Mauricio Bonifacio (Sunny Isles, FL)

Very good cleaning

Riley Purdy (West Palm Beach, FL)

Dr. Gorbatov placed an implant for me, I am extremely happy with the result, I had absolutely no pain during the procedure after few month doctor put a crown, looks... read more

Sergey Kasatkin (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

I had a procedure done by Dr. Gorbatov, it was amazing, I didn't feel anything, he has very gentle hands and techniques and I didn't even feel the shot! I... read more

Jessica Y Montero (West Palm Beach, FL)

Dr. Gorbatov is an excellent dentist whose main priority is making sure his patients are comfortable and get the best dentistry he can offer. He provides an attentive service, and... read more

Natallia Harbacheuskaya (Hollywood, FL)

For me, dental work always came with the presumption of pain and discomfort. That's why it was always very difficult to get any recommended work done, because all I'd have... read more

Iry T. (Hallandale Beach, FL)

Been going here forever and they do an excellent job with all your dental needs and even with cosmetic dentistry as well!

Lauren Harris (Lake Worth, FL)

Very high professionalism, excellent atmosphere and responsiveness of employees have made this business one of the best. A well-functioning team led by one of the best professionals of the US... read more

Lili Ivanova (Sunny Isles Beach, FL)

Incredible how I was just taking my mother to her dentist appointment to me ending up becoming a patient, Jessica greeted me with such warmth and compassion and immediately noticed... read more

Aracelis Figueroa (Wellington, FL)

Painless, professional and efficient. Dr Gorbatov is great!

Suzanne Wilt (West Palm Beach, FL)

Dr. Gorbatov was very thorough and went over all concerns I had (I'm not really a fan of the dentist). He is definitely the nicest Dentist I have ever been... read more

Sofia Rodriguez (Hallandale Beach, FL)

Wonderful facility and staff, very professional.

(Sunny Isles, FL)

I recommend this place to anyone that needs any type of dental work done , I always feel welcome from the moment i sign in untill my visit is over... read more

Lyn F (Wellington, FL)

I have been having a lot of issues with my teeth for quiet some time, including broken molars and bad procedures at other dental facilities. I came to Dr. Gorbatov... read more

Felix Spengler (Miami, FL)

You are the best guys! You definitely make me smile more :) Thank you sooooo much! Olga Aksenova ❤️

Olga Axenova (Hallandale Beach, FL)

Well I’ve been going to Dr. Gorbatov since 1996.... Yes ! I’m a loyal. With all the dental issues I’ve had, he’s been able to resolve them and been keeping... read more

Burke Crump (Wellington, FL)

Very happy with quick service, suggestions & prices. Will be a repeat customer

Jaclyn Franceschini (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

Dr. Gorbatov is an outstanding dental surgeon and professional in every sense of the word. He and his entire staff are wonderful--- by far the most knowledgeable and compassionate of... read more

Salt&Light (West Palm Beach, FL)

I are retired dentist and visit dr Gorbatov,s office like a patien for dental works. We graduate the same school New York university and l can tell you the dr... read more

Shmuil Aronovich (Hallandale Beach, FL)

Thank you doctor for my beautiful smile!

V V (Hollywood, FL)

Book an Appointment
Skip to content

Appointment







Fill out email and/or message