One of the most common questions I hear from patients is: "Are my silver fillings made of mercury?"
The answer is YES. Many people are surprised to learn that what we commonly call a silver filling is actually a material known as dental amalgam, and about half of that material is elemental mercury.
Dental amalgam has been used to restore teeth for more than 150 years. It earned the nickname "silver filling" because of its shiny silver appearance after it is placed.
Despite the name, it is not made entirely of silver. Dental amalgam is a carefully formulated mixture of several metals. By weight, it is approximately:
Each metal contributes something important to the final restoration.
Each ingredient has a specific purpose. Mercury is unique because it is a liquid at room temperature. It acts like a binder, allowing the powdered metals to be mixed into a soft material that can be packed into a prepared tooth. As the material hardens, it forms a strong restoration.
Silver contributes strength and durability. Copper improves the filling's resistance to wear and corrosion. Tin helps make the material workable during placement and contributes to the setting process. Together, these metals create a restoration capable of withstanding the tremendous forces generated during chewing.
The name can be misleading. Patients often assume the filling is made of silver, much like a gold crown is made primarily of gold. In reality, the silver color comes from the combination of metals after they are mixed and harden inside the tooth. "Dental amalgam" is the proper name, but "silver filling" has remained the common term for generations.
Understanding what is in your mouth helps you make informed decisions about your oral health. Many patients are surprised to learn that their silver fillings contain mercury because they have never been told what dental amalgam is made of. Others are curious about the material because they are considering replacing older restorations or have heard discussions about amalgam over the years.
Whatever your reason for asking, you deserve clear, straightforward information. One of the goals of Voyage to Vitality is to help you better understand your oral health. The more you know about the materials in your mouth, the more confident you'll feel when discussing your options with your dentist. After all, informed patients make empowered decisions.