Mercury Free Dental Fillings
The Clock Tower Dental Clinic – amalgam-free fillings for Surrey patients.
If you follow dental news at all, you may have noticed that the European Parliament has decided that it will phase out amalgam in dentistry by 2030. For some time, there have been debates about the safety of using amalgam as it contains mercury. Whilst studies have shown its use to be safe in amalgam fillings, and has been designated so by the General Dental Council, this appears not to have satisfied some patient’s concerns.
Another factor which is slowly driving people away from amalgam fillings is, of course, their appearance. Amalgam is a mixture of metals, including silver, tin and mercury and consequently is very dark in colour.
More about amalgam fillings
It should be said that amalgam fillings are extremely strong and effective, and, for this reason, it comes as no surprise to know that this material has been used in dentistry for a long time; first appearing in Europe in 1528 and was, in fact, first documented worldwide as long ago as 659. It is reasonable to assume that the materials now used are more refined and effective than before, although its appearance may not be a lot different.
Amalgam can be used in both small and large fillings and does offer a very good degree of strength, despite its stark appearance.
Natural looking mercury free fillings
For those who still have concerns, or for those who simply want dental fillings that blend with their natural teeth, the Clock Tower Dental Clinic in Epsom, offers mercury free dental fillings for patients from across Surrey. Even patients who already have amalgam fillings can have them removed safely at our Epsom practice and replaced with natural looking white fillings. Patient safety is always paramount and we ensure that every effort is made to minimise any potential risks to health during this procedure.
With white fillings, often a little less of the tooth needs to be removed due to their enhanced binding properties. This is an additional bonus for patients, along with the fact that they can be matched to the colour of your teeth; leaving you to laugh and smile with confidence.
Larger fillings
Whilst the strength and durability of this new filling material has improved greatly over the years and now almost reaches the level of amalgam, alternatives may have to be considered where very large fillings are needed. If you do wish to avoid amalgam in these situations, then dental crowns, onlays or inlays may offer an alternative solution.
If you need a filling and are interested in finding out more about what we can offer, please call the Clock Tower Dental Clinic on 01372 720136 to arrange your consultation.