The dental amalgam controversy refers to the conflicting views over the use of amalgam as a filling material mainly because it contains the element mercury. MERCURY TOOTH FILLINGS

ADVANTAGES It can withstand chewing and biting It is safe for adults and children ages 6 and above It is inexpensive compared to other fillings It can be completed in one dental visit It is generally stronger than porcelain fillings. Dentists generally prefer amalgam fillings because they are easier to work with, more flexible, less expensive and more durable than the gold or porcelain alternatives. they can last for many years, because the metal corrodes, and “self- seals” the micro gaps between the tooth and the filling.

ADVANTAGES Less drilling is involved than with amalgam fillings because your dentist does not have to shape the space as much to hold the filling securely. The bonding process holds the composite resin in the tooth. Indirect composite fillings and inlays are heat-cured, increasing their strength. The rust is rich in heavy metals, and is very toxic to bacteria, so recurring decay is relatively rare. Mercury vapor is released from the alloys every time there is pressure applied, when you bite down, but it is not linked to any illness.

DISADVANTAGES It doesnt match teeth color Healthy parts of the tooth must be removed to make space large enough to hold an amalgam filling Some people are allergic to mercury One of the main problems with silver fillings is when the amalgam corrodes, it will always expand; because all metals do. It can corrode overtime and can cause discoloration to the teeth and for your mouth, this is not a good thing. As they expand, they put pressure on the remaining tooth structure, and eventually either the tooth or the filling will fracture.

DISADVANTAGES Amalgam pollutes 1) water via dental clinic releases and human waste; 2) air via cremation, dental clinic emissions, sludge incineration, and respiration; and 3) land via landfills, burials, and fertilizer Amalgam emits mercury vapor even after it is implanted into the body. This mercury is bioaccumulative, and it crosses the placenta to accumulate in fetuses as well. Dental amalgam's mercury is a known health risk, especially for children, fetuses, nursing infants, and people with impaired kidney function especially. The continued use of amalgam keeps the price of mercury-free filling materials high by decreasing demand for these alternatives. As use of mercury-free materials increases, their price is expected to decrease even further.

EFFECTS TO SOCIETY Mercury tooth fillings affect society in all forms. It has impact on human health, economy, environment. Its advantages and disadvantages are proofs that it affects our society. Because of its pros and cons, the society is still on debate whether it should still be patronized or should be turned down.

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