Amalgam Fillings

Decayed or damaged teeth can be successfully repaired with amalgam fillings – a safe, cost-effective method that restores a tooth’s shape and functionality in a particularly durable way.

Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are made of a combination of metals including silver, tin, copper and mercury. The inclusion of mercury has caused some controversy but numerous scientific studies have dismissed any link between its use and any adverse health effects. Amalgam fillings are also inexpensive, durable and quicker to place than other types of fillings.

However, amalgam fillings are not recommended for pregnant women or suitable for those people who have an allergy to the metals in the amalgam. In these cases, or if you would prefer a less obvious restoration, composite (white) fillings can be used.

Treatment steps

• If necessary, a local anaesthetic is used to numb the area.
• The decayed part of the tooth is removed and the cavity cleaned.
• The amalgam is placed inside the tooth and shaped to fit.