{"id":135,"date":"2026-05-29T23:26:01","date_gmt":"2026-05-29T23:26:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.drsilfa.com\/blog\/is-it-smart-to-replace-your-metal-filling\/"},"modified":"2026-06-01T23:27:49","modified_gmt":"2026-06-01T23:27:49","slug":"is-it-smart-to-replace-your-metal-filling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.drsilfa.com\/blog\/is-it-smart-to-replace-your-metal-filling\/","title":{"rendered":"Upgrading Restorations: Is It Smart to Replace Your Metal Filling?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you got a dental filling several years back, the only option you might\u2019ve had was amalgam. It\u2019s a metal material that has been serving you well, but you may not like how obvious it looks against your enamel. However, as new research comes to light, you might be wary of the downsides of this restoration. Should you get it replaced with its modern, tooth-colored option<\/a>? Here\u2019s what to know to make a confident choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Exactly Is an Amalgam Filling?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While you may have an amalgam filling, you might wonder exactly what it\u2019s made from. Well, it\u2019s typically a mix of metals. Half of it is usually silver, tin, or gold, while the rest is mercury. The latter acts like a binding agent that is also malleable, meaning it helps your dentist place and sculpt it against your tooth. The combination is also very sturdy, often lasting for up to 15 years or longer with proper care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can Metal Fillings Be Harmful?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With all that said, recent studies have shown that there is a link between this type of restoration and mercury levels in the body. This metal can be harmful in excess amounts, although one or two amalgam fillings aren\u2019t the cause of much concern. That said, the vapor they release can be trouble for a few patients, particularly those who are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n