Have you heard that amalgam will be phased out of dentistry for good by 2025? This material, which has been used for dental fillings for decades, has been the subject of ongoing debate for some time. Health concerns and the impact on the environment have brought alternatives into focus and made this change so important. But what exactly does that mean for you as a patient?
In this article, you will learn why amalgam is so controversial and what led to it, which modern filling materials are used today and what you should look out for if you need a tooth filling. We will show you the advantages of the new materials and how they can change your visit to the dentist. Join us on an exciting journey into the future of dentistry - easy to understand, comprehensively explained and with valuable tips for you .
Amalgam: What is it and why has it been used for so long?
Amalgam is one of the oldest filling materials in dentistry and has been used for over 150 years. It consists of an alloy of mercury, silver, tin and copper. Why was amalgam so popular? Its durability, low price and ease of processing made it a preferred choice for dentists worldwide. Amalgam has impressed with its robustness, particularly for molars that are subject to heavy wear.
But as with any success story, there are downsides. Amalgam contains mercury , a substance that can be harmful to health in large quantities or if handled improperly. Although studies show that the risk is low for intact fillings, concerns remain, especially for damaged or old fillings. In addition, disposal of amalgam is a major problem, as mercury can enter the environment and cause significant damage.
For you as a patient, this means that amalgam has long been a proven solution , but the risks to health and the environment have led dentists to increasingly rely on modern alternatives. These new materials not only offer greater safety, but also aesthetic advantages that will benefit your smile.
Why is amalgam banned? The health and environmental reasons
The decision to ban amalgam from dentistry is based on two key aspects: protecting our environment and concern for people's health. Both reasons show how important this step is for modern, sustainable dentistry.
One of the main components of amalgam is mercury , a highly effective but also problematic element. Although it is used in a bound form in dentistry, even the smallest amounts can be released during disposal. These enter the environment and accumulate in soil and water, where they can cause considerable damage. Mercury is highly toxic and can accumulate in the food chain , which affects not only animals but also humans. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have therefore been calling for the use of mercury to be reduced worldwide for years. The ban on amalgam in dentistry is a significant step in this direction.
But it's not just the environment that benefits: the health of patients is also a focus. Although many experts emphasize that the amount of mercury in amalgam fillings is minimal, critics warn of possible risks, especially for particularly sensitive people. Pregnant women, children and people with certain pre-existing conditions could be more susceptible to possible side effects. That's why many dentists have already started to be more cautious with amalgam and offer alternatives.
For you as a patient, this ban means that dentistry is not only safer, but also more environmentally friendly. The decision in favor of sustainable materials shows that progress and responsibility in dentistry go hand in hand - for your health and that of our planet.
What alternatives are there? Modern materials at a glance
The good news is: Amalgam may be disappearing from dentistry, but the alternatives are more modern, safer and often more aesthetically pleasing. Today you can choose from a variety of high-quality filling materials that are not only functional but also blend in perfectly with your smile.
- Composites - the invisible favorite: Composites are one of the most popular filling materials. These tooth-colored plastic fillings can be adapted to your natural tooth color in an almost invisible way, making them particularly suitable for front teeth. Thanks to modern technology, they are now very resilient and also offer good durability in the molar area. Another advantage is that they can be processed in a minimally invasive manner - so only as little tooth substance as necessary is removed.
- Ceramic - natural beauty with the highest precision: If you value aesthetics and durability, ceramic is the perfect choice. Ceramic inlays or onlays look almost identical to your natural tooth and are extremely durable. They are ideal for larger repairs where stability and appearance are important. However, they are a little more expensive, but this is justified by their quality.
- Gold - the classic for the molar area: Gold fillings are a tried and tested material with exceptional durability. They are a solid solution, especially for the molar area, as they can easily withstand the strong chewing pressure. The disadvantage? They are visually striking and are one of the more expensive options.
- Glass ionomer cement - practical for minor procedures: Glass ionomer cement is another alternative that is mainly used for minor repairs or temporary fillings. It is not as robust as composites or ceramics, but it is inexpensive and ideal for temporary solutions. It also releases fluoride, which provides additional protection for the tooth.
Each of these materials has its own advantages and uses. The choice depends on various factors, such as the position of the filling, your dental health, your budget and your aesthetic needs. Talk to your dentist to find the best solution for you. Modern alternatives offer you the opportunity to not only repair your teeth, but also maintain a smile that you can show off with pride.
What does the future of dental fillings look like?
Dentistry is on the verge of an exciting change, and the innovations that await us could revolutionize the way dental fillings are made and used. Modern filling materials are constantly evolving , with the aim of getting even closer to the properties of natural teeth. One exciting example of this is bioactive ceramic. This material can not only restore the structure of a damaged tooth, but also strengthen the surrounding tissue and even promote tooth growth. For you, this means longer durability, better aesthetics and a filling that can do more than just cover up a defect.
But that's not all. The use of 3D printing and artificial intelligence is taking dentistry into a new era. Imagine if your dentist could create a customized filling right in the office within a few minutes - a perfect fit and with the utmost precision. This not only saves you time, but also ensures more comfort and an even gentler treatment.
In order for such innovative materials and technologies to develop their full effect, your dental care is crucial. Thorough cleaning and preventive care are the key to avoiding damage to your teeth or detecting it early. Our ultrasonic toothbrush from emmi-dent can help you with this. provide valuable services. Their innovative technology reaches even hard-to-reach areas and gently and effectively protects your teeth from plaque and other dental diseases.
The future of dental fillings is not only exciting, but also full of possibilities that will make your smile healthier and brighter. With conscious dental care and the right tools, you can actively contribute to keeping your teeth healthy for as long as possible - and making the best use of modern solutions when necessary.
