Do I have too many amalgam fillings?

[Lilian Choo]

Do I have too many amalgam fillings?
I have 16 amalgam fillings (currently)
I have had them since I was 12. They have been refilled multiple times. I also have two root canals. I am having no pain currently but I am very worried. My dentist doesn’t use water, numbing, or a rubber dam. I live in Singapore. Any advice?

 

[Dr M]

It depends on your dentist. Amalgam fillings had its benefits 20 years ago, and there are still some benefits to amalgam fillings today. Fortunately there are alternatives to Amalgam fillings in modern dentistry. Since you already have the fillings, I would not recommend removing them if there is no indication to do so. You could end up doing more harm to your teeth.
If in the future there is a cracked Amalgam etc. , then you could replace that specific filling with a composite filling. You would need to then use a rubber dam however, since resin restorations are more moisture sensitive. It is also recommended to use water with high speed dental hand pieces, since you might end up damaging the nerve due to the excessive heat that builds up.

 

[Lilian Choo]

Thanks but my dentist only does amalgam fillings crowns and root canals
Do you at least think my fillings look good?

 

[Lilian Choo]

Thanks but my dentist only does amalgam fillings crowns and root canals
Do you at least think my fillings look good?

And is it normal for this amount of fillings

 

[nestorramos]

View attachment 6969View attachment 6970Do I have too many amalgam fillings?
I have 16 amalgam fillings (currently)
I have had them since I was 12. They have been refilled multiple times. I also have two root canals. I am having no pain currently but I am very worried. My dentist doesn’t use water, numbing, or a rubber dam. I live in Singapore. Any advice?

Hey Lilian, I can totally understand why you’re feeling worried—dental health is such a big part of our overall well-being.

Having 16 amalgam fillings since you were 12 is a lot to manage, but it’s good to hear you’re not in any pain right now. That said, I get why you’re concerned about the way your dentist handles things, especially without using water, numbing, or a rubber dam. Those tools are usually used to make the process safer and more comfortable, so it’s natural to feel uneasy.

It might be a good idea to consider getting a second opinion from another dentist, especially one who uses more current practices. Singapore has many dental clinics with up-to-date technology and patient care, so finding someone who makes you feel more comfortable could make a big difference.

You’re doing the right thing by being proactive about your health. I hope you find a dentist who can give you the reassurance and care you deserve.

Take care, and I hope everything works out for you!

 

[Dr M]

Thanks but my dentist only does amalgam fillings crowns and root canals
Do you at least think my fillings look good?

The fillings look good on the photo, but we would need an x-ray in order to determine if any of the fillings might be problematic.
The reasoning behind the placement of the fillings, might be due to lots of childhood cavities. We would need more information regarding your specific dental history to say for sure.

 

[Lilian Choo]

The fillings look good on the photo, but we would need an x-ray in order to determine if any of the fillings might be problematic.
The reasoning behind the placement of the fillings, might be due to lots of childhood cavities. We would need more information regarding your specific dental history to say for sure.

I when to the the dentist again and he said that i needed 10 more root canals