The use of amalgam fillings in dentistry has been a source of controversy in recent years. Studies about whether or not the mercury found in amalgam fillings is harmful to the body are inconclusive. Though many dentists still use amalgam fillings, others have made the decision to be mercury free.

Drs. Kitchen and Stapley–Mesa Mercury Free Dentists

Drs. Kitchen and Stapley will place amalgam fillings if you ask, but they prefer to place white composite fillings. Why? There are many reasons. The material used in composite fillings bonds to your tooth, making your tooth stronger and less apt to fracture. White fillings do not corrode like amalgam fillings. The picture to the right is a close-up of a deteriorating amalgam filling. Notice the cracks in the filling material, and the gaps between the filling and the tooth. This type of situation allows decay to develop under the filling itself.

A cracked and weakened amalgam filling must be replaced, preferably with white composite fillings. White fillings are not just more durable, they are without question more beautiful. Amalgam fillings, especially if they are quite large, lend a bluish gray cast to the affected teeth and the surrounding teeth. This discoloration is clearly visible when you laugh, or even if you smile broadly.

The pictures below really tell the story. No one would disagree that the picture on the right is much more attractive, but when you consider that white fillings make your teeth stronger, the choice between old fashioned amalgam fillings and white composite fillings seems obvious.