What are the advantages and disadvantages of amalgam?
Ans : The advantages of an amalgam filling are that the placement technique takes less time to complete and amalgam costs considerably less than composite material. Amalgam is also time-tested and very durable, typically lasting 12 to 15 years, and often remains healthy and functional for 30 years or more. Also, amalgam tends to hold up better in primary teeth due to its ease in placing under difficult conditions (i.e. behavior and adaptability in getting wet in saliva). The disadvantages are that the silver fillings are less attractive than the tooth-colored composite; for this reason, amalgam typically is not placed in front teeth. Another drawback is that the metal in amalgam expands and contracts with heat and cold. Over time, depending on the size of the restoration, this can cause the filling to fracture your tooth, and a crown will be required to restore tooth functionality.
