Safely Removing Amalgam Fillings in Mississauga
Many patients still have older amalgam fillings that have become worn, damaged, or broken down over time and may require replacement. Others may be interested in replacing amalgam fillings because they prefer the appearance of tooth-coloured restorations.
At St. Lawrence Dentistry, we have not placed amalgam fillings for many years, but Dr. Hawryluk Jr. routinely removes existing amalgam restorations when replacement is clinically appropriate or when a patient has made an informed decision to replace them.
Are Amalgam Fillings Safe?
Dental amalgam has been used for more than 150 years and remains a recognized dental restorative material. The Canadian Dental Association and American Dental Association consider dental amalgam an established restorative material when used appropriately.
St. Lawrence Dentistry does not recommend removing an otherwise serviceable amalgam filling solely because it contains metal. However, an amalgam restoration may need to be replaced if it is damaged, defective, or the surrounding tooth requires treatment.
Why Magnification Matters During Amalgam Removal
Removing a deep amalgam restoration requires precision.
Dr. Hawryluk Jr. uses a Global Dental Microscope when removing deep amalgam fillings, particularly in situations involving difficult-to-access areas such as the back molars.
A dental microscope provides both magnification and resolution. This additional visual information can help Dr. Hawryluk Jr. work more precisely when removing an existing restoration.
CONSIDERING REPLACING AN OLD AMALGAM FILLING?
If you have an older amalgam filling that is damaged, worn, or requires replacement, St. Lawrence Dentistry can assess the restoration and the underlying tooth.
We can also discuss tooth-coloured composite restoration if you are considering replacing an existing amalgam filling for aesthetic or personal reasons.
Using a Dental Dam for Amalgam Removal
Dr. Hawryluk Jr. uses a dental dam when removing amalgam fillings.
A dental dam isolates the tooth being treated from the surrounding mouth. It provides a controlled working field and helps prevent pieces of the restoration from entering the patient’s mouth during the procedure.
The dental dam also improves visibility and helps Dr. Hawryluk Jr. maintain a precise working area around the tooth.
Replacing an Amalgam Filling With a White Composite Filling
Once the old amalgam restoration has been removed and the tooth has been appropriately prepared, it can often be restored with a tooth-coloured composite resin filling, depending on the condition of the tooth.
At St. Lawrence Dentistry, we use G-Premio BOND from GC Corporation, a universal bonding agent designed to provide a strong bond between the tooth and composite restorative material.
The composite is then placed in controlled increments and cured appropriately to create the new restoration.
Frequently asked questions
Does St. Lawrence Dentistry remove amalgam fillings?
Yes. Although St. Lawrence Dentistry has not placed amalgam fillings for many years, Dr. Hawryluk Jr. routinely removes existing amalgam restorations when replacement is clinically appropriate or when a patient chooses to replace an existing restoration.
Should I remove an amalgam filling just because it is old?
Not necessarily. An old amalgam filling does not automatically need to be removed if it remains functional and the surrounding tooth is healthy. Your dentist should assess the condition of the filling and tooth before recommending replacement.
Why might someone replace an amalgam filling?
Amalgam fillings may require replacement if they are damaged, defective, or the tooth underneath requires treatment. Some patients may also choose replacement because they prefer the appearance of a tooth-coloured composite restoration.
What is used instead of an amalgam filling?
Depending on the condition and location of the tooth, a composite resin filling may be an appropriate alternative. Composite is tooth-coloured and can bond directly to tooth structure.
Does St. Lawrence Dentistry use a dental microscope for amalgam removal?
Yes. Dr. Hawryluk Jr. uses a Global Dental Microscope when removing deep amalgam restorations and other restorations where enhanced magnification and resolution can assist with precision.
Why is a dental dam used during amalgam removal?
A dental dam isolates the tooth from the rest of the mouth and helps create a controlled treatment environment. It also helps prevent pieces of the restoration from entering the mouth during removal.
Can an amalgam filling be replaced with a white filling?
In many situations, yes. After assessing the tooth and removing the existing restoration, a composite resin filling may be used when appropriate.
Will replacing an amalgam filling damage my tooth?
The goal of careful amalgam removal is to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Dr. Hawryluk Jr. uses magnification, controlled pressure, appropriate cooling, and precise instrumentation to work conservatively.