Replacing Amalgam with Composite
Written by Tandlæge Rune Skou, 2009-09-06Last update: 2009-13-07
Question from Alice
My dentist says I have to have all my old amalgam fillings replaced with new composite fillings, but I don’t understand why the old ones aren’t good enough when I’ve had them without any problems for many years.
I asked my dentist about it, but he just told me that it was about time they were replaced – which I don’t think explains a lot. Can you tell me why you’d replace amalgam fillings with composite ones?
Alice
Answer
Dear Alice,
I understand why you’re a bit confused about the message you got from your dentist.
There are many good reasons to replace a filling, but age alone isn’t one of them. Your dentist probably thinks there’s another problem with the filling as well: a very common problem with amalgam fillings is cracked or fractured teeth, and another is cavities.
Whatever the reason, I think you’re entitled to a better explanation so you and your dentist can agree on what to do and why it’s best to do it.
Yours Sincerely,