~Questions about fillings~ - Dental Health Message Board

Tennessee girl · 11-05-2005, 02:31 PM

I went to the dentist yesterday and got 2 fillings, and they are a light gray color. CAn anyone here tell me what different kind of fillings there are? I have never seen light gray fillings, anyone on here have these kind?

Thanks!

Tennessee girl · 11-09-2005, 08:32 AM

Am I the only one with these light gray fillings????

rhody · 11-09-2005, 09:09 PM

You probably have mercury-silver dental amalgams. The filling at first takes a lighter gray color, and eventually darkens over time. In addition to mercury and silver, these amalgams typically have copper and zinc. The amount of each metal varies in these amalgams, so you would have to ask your dentist. Mercury usually is about half the total amount.

There was information I read sometime back, about developing a non-mercury metal filling. I don't know if anyone has done that yet, to the point where they are using it on patients. I'd have to keep reading and researching...and if I hear of anything I'll let you know.

It's best to give your dentist a call, and ask him or her if the fillings are mercury-silver dental amalgams...or something else.

rhody · 11-09-2005, 09:36 PM

You wanted to know also the different types of dental fillings. Generally you have mercury-silver dental amalgams, gold alloys, composite resins, and porcelain fillings. Of the those groups, there are many varieties. There may be other types of fillings too. Since it has been reported that less and less people want the gray-black mercury-silver metal fillings, there are many alternative fillings be developed and used.

Oh, I should add that nickel and tin might also be in the amalgam mixture. I hope that helps.

Tennessee girl · 11-10-2005, 09:09 AM

THanks Rhody!
I am going to ask the dentist when I go back what my fillings are to be sure. I never seen any like mine, they are a dull light gray. Not shiny or anything. Is this what the silver ones look like at first? I never had silver fillings so I don't know. Thanks again for your help.
~ashley