tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608001619228665928.post-15101288512972249902008-05-01T14:34:00.001-05:002008-05-06T14:58:15.894-05:00Over the years, many people have had amalgam (silver) fillings placed into their teeth to fill areas affected by tooth decay.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Prevent Breakage </span><br />However, amalgam shrinks and expands with temperature at a different rate than your enamel. Over time, the pushing and pulling action of expansion and contraction can cause your tooth to fracture and break, leading to more tooth decay and other problems.<br /><br />By replacing your old amalgam fillings with a composite material, you can help restore your tooth’s natural structure. <a href="http://www.smileshaper.com/Tooth-Colored-Dental-Fillings.html">Composite fillings</a> also bond to your tooth, similar to <a href="http://www.smileshaper.com/Dental-Veneers.html">porcelain veneers</a>, creating a tighter seal that strengthens your tooth and protects it from cracking.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mercury-Free</span><br />Amalgam fillings may release mercury vapor when you chew. Some people believe that this mercury vapor can cause health problems, such as neurological disorders, to individuals who are sensitive to it.<br /><br />Since the 1990s, the <a href="http://www.fda.gov/">Food and Drug Administration (FDA)</a>, the <a href="http://www.nih.gov/">National Institutes of Health (NIH)</a> and the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)</a> have been examining a relationship between amalgam fillings and health concerns. Presently, there has been no scientific evidence that these fillings have directly caused harm to children or adults.<br /><br />However, these concerns are still valid, and these health organizations are continuing to examine this relationship. Composite fillings are mercury-free, so you would never be exposed to this potentially dangerous vapor.<br /><br />If you are interested in changing your old amalgam fillings, please contact the office of Dallas cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef today for a <a href="http://www.smileshaper.com/contact.html">free initial consultation</a>.Pattihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11888140799215159624noreply@blogger.com