I have three amalgam fillings on my back teeth that I want to have replaced by composite fillings. My dentist told me the amalgam fillings stain the teeth and they will not look normal if he removes them to put in the composite fillings. Is there anything I can do to remove the staining so as to have the composite fillings? Once I learned about the mercury in amalgam fillings I wanted them out. Even with the staining I’m going to have them removed. I just was hoping their was something I can do with the staining.
Deanna- from Alabama
Deanna,
Amalgam fillings can stain your teeth, but in my experience it is not a significant amount, especially if you’re talking about back teeth. Every time that I have placed composite fillings in place of amalgam they have always looked better. It seems like you’re pretty determined to get the composite fillings, and you have every right to be. However, I would warn you not to push your dentist into it. It sounds to me like he is uncomfortable placing mercury-free composite fillings. Up until recently it wasn’t a technique taught in general dentistry schools. A dentist had to get additional post-graduate training to be able to correctly place these fillings. If he’s not experienced there could be a lot of post operative problems. It would be better to find a qualified dentist, who is experienced with these type of fillings.
You might also be interested in Zoom Whitening.
This blog is brought to you by Seattle cosmetic dentist Dr. McKay.
Learn More About General Dentistry
