Have you ever caught yourself staring at that shiny silver blob on your back molar and thinking, “Is this thing still relevant—or is it just dental vintage?” Welcome to the world of amalgam fillings, the OG of cavity repair. If you’ve grown up in Manish Nagar and have ever visited a dentist before 2010, chances are you’ve got one of these metallic time capsules chilling in your mouth.
But now that we’re in 2025, with smart toothbrushes, invisible braces, and fillings that match your teeth so well they could be spies—do dentists still use amalgam fillings at all?
Keep reading to know the answer-
What Exactly Is an Amalgam Filling?
Before we cancel it like low-rise jeans, let’s understand what we’re talking about. Amalgam fillings are those shiny, silver-colored dental warriors made from a combo of metals—usually mercury (yes, the toxic one), silver, tin, and copper.
They’ve been used for over 150 years. That means they were already filling their teeth when the first telegram was sent. No joke.
But don’t panic about the mercury bit just yet—more on that later.
Why Were Amalgam Fillings So Popular?
Amalgam fillings had the charm of an old Bollywood hero—reliable, rugged, and always there to save the day. Here’s why dentists loved them back in the day:
- Super durable – These guys could outlast your New Year’s resolutions.
- Cost-effective – Cheaper than composite or ceramic options.
- Quick to apply – Less chair time, more chai time.
- Great for back teeth – Especially molars, where chewing pressure is high.
So basically, amalgam fillings were the Ambassadors of dentistry—ugly maybe, but functional and tough as nails.
So, Do Dentists Still Use Them?
Here’s the twist in the tale: Yes—but rarely. Especially in upscale, modern clinics like Salankar Dental and Implant Clinic in Manish Nagar, where we blend old-school reliability with new-school technology (and add a dash of humor).
Many dentists today can use amalgam fillings, but often don’t—and for some very solid reasons:
1. Aesthetics: Silver Is Not Everyone’s Color
Unless you’re auditioning for a metal band, chances are you don’t want visible silver in your mouth. Amalgam stands out like a flashy belt buckle at a black-tie event.
Composite fillings, which are tooth-colored and practically invisible, have taken over the scene, especially for front teeth or anyone with selfie habits.
2. Mercury Panic
Amalgam contains mercury, which sounds scary. But let’s clear the air: the mercury in amalgam is in a stable alloy form—it’s not like the dentist is injecting you with a thermometer.
Still, due to public concern, stricter regulations, and increased awareness of environmental impact, many clinics—including ours—are moving toward mercury-free dentistry.
Yes, we can do it, but we prefer not to unless the situation demands it.
3. Better Alternatives Exist Now
Composite, ceramic, and glass ionomer fillings are like the modern smartphones of dentistry: sleeker, smarter, and way more Instagrammable than the old metallic blocks.
They bond better, are less invasive, and match your natural tooth color. What more could a tooth want?
When Might Amalgam Still Be Used?
Okay, okay… before we retire silver fillings and toss them into the museum next to floppy disks, there are situations where dentists might still choose amalgam:
- When a patient insists on it (nostalgia is powerful!)
- For back teeth with heavy bite force
- In government clinics or rural setups, where cost and speed matter more than appearance
- When moisture control is difficult—composite requires a dry field, and that’s tough if your tongue has trust issues
However, in Manish Nagar, where modern dentistry meets modern smiles, we typically opt for newer, safer, and more aesthetically pleasing options.
What If You Already Have an Amalgam Filling?
Please don’t panic, and don’t go at it with a butter knife.
If your old amalgam filling is:
- Stable,
- Not causing any discomfort, and
- Not cracked or broken
Then it’s fine to leave it alone. “If it ain’t broke, don’t drill it”—that’s the dental version of “let sleeping dogs lie.”
At Salankar Dental and Implant Clinic, we check the health of your fillings during every check-up. If it’s leaking or corroded, we’ll suggest whether to replace it—and what your options are.
Are Amalgam Fillings Safe?
Here comes the nerdy science part (but we’ll make it painless, promise):
Multiple studies have found no conclusive evidence that amalgam fillings cause harm in healthy individuals.
But for people with mercury allergies, pregnant women, or those with compromised immune systems, most dentists avoid amalgam.
If you’re feeling unsure, please don’t hesitate to ask us. We like answering weird questions. Even the “Does chewing too much sugarcane build jaw muscles?” kind.
What’s the Trend at Salankar Dental and Implant Clinic?
Let’s spill the (dental) tea: At Salankar Dental and Implant Clinic in Manish Nagar, we’re dedicated to combining traditional wisdom with cutting-edge care.
We do provide amalgam fillings in Manish Nagar if:
- It’s the best clinical choice, or
- You specifically request it (hey, your teeth, your rules)
But 95% of our fillings are now composite, ceramic, or glass ionomer-based—they’re strong, safe, and designed for today’s aesthetics.
Think of it as the iPhone of fillings—smart, clean, and built to last.
In Short Summary
- Yes, amalgam fillings are still technically used.
- But modern dentists rarely use them anymore.
- They’re safe but outdated. Composites are the Beyoncé of fillings now.
FAQs Answered!
- Do amalgam fillings have mercury?
Yes, but it’s bonded and stable. Still, we mostly avoid it now out of an abundance of caution.
- Are composite fillings as strong as silver ones?
Today’s composites are pretty tough, especially for front and mid teeth. For heavy chewers, ceramics may be a recommended option.
- How long do amalgam fillings last?
10–15 years, sometimes longer. But if it’s cracked or leaking, it’s time for an upgrade.
Let’s Talk Teeth—Old School or New?
Is that old-school silver for you? Or are you ready to level up with a natural-looking filling that doesn’t announce itself every time you smile?
Visit Salankar Dental and Implant Clinic, and we’ll take a look. We’ll ensure your tooth receives the best, whether it’s composite or amalgam fillings in Manish Nagar.